Winsome Resources Pioneers Carbon Sequestration at Renard Lithium Site

Strategic Collaboration for Sustainability

Winsome Resources (ASX:WR1) has announced a significant step forward in sustainable mining by partnering with leading industry players to develop a comprehensive Carbon Sequestration Strategy at its Renard Operation in Quebec. This initiative aims to integrate cutting-edge Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) technologies alongside lithium production, positioning Winsome at the forefront of environmentally responsible resource development.

The company has formalised Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with Isometric, a global leader in voluntary carbon markets and carbon credit verification, as well as with Arca Climate Technologies Inc, Exterra Carbon Solutions, and Aquarry, each bringing specialised expertise in mineral-based carbon removal techniques. These partnerships enable Winsome to evaluate multiple CDR technologies and explore their practical application within the existing infrastructure at Renard.

Innovative Carbon Removal Approaches

At the heart of the strategy is the utilisation of processed kimberlite tailings rich in magnesium-bearing minerals such as olivine and serpentine. These materials naturally react with atmospheric CO2 through mineral carbonation, converting carbon dioxide into stable mineral forms like magnesium carbonate. This process, validated by Isometric's Open System Ex-Situ Mineralisation (OSEM) protocol, offers a promising pathway to generate verified carbon credits.

Additional CDR techniques under investigation include surface water mineralisation in pit lakes, enhanced weathering using wastewater, and mine reclamation strategies that transform flooded open pits into carbon sinks. The Renard site’s existing crushing circuits, water treatment facilities, and transport infrastructure provide a unique advantage for integrating these technologies efficiently.

Economic and Environmental Synergies

Winsome’s Managing Director, Chris Evans, emphasised the dual benefits of this approach: "Renard represents a unique opportunity to lower our carbon footprint and align environmental progress with economic growth." By combining lithium production with large-scale carbon management, Winsome aims to unlock new revenue streams through carbon credits while contributing meaningfully to global climate goals.

In addition, the company is exploring the potential to access federal incentives such as Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) tax credits, which could significantly offset costs and enhance project viability. This aligns with Winsome’s broader clean technology objectives and complements its existing Clean Technology Mineral (CTM) credits strategy.

Positioning Renard as a Sustainability Hub

The Renard Operation, currently under an exclusive option agreement, is envisioned as a dual-use hub that leverages its well-maintained infrastructure to support both spodumene concentrate production and innovative carbon removal activities. This integrated model could set a global precedent for mining operations seeking to embed sustainability at their core.

Winsome’s collaboration with Arca Climate, recognized for its award-winning carbon mineralisation technologies, Exterra Carbon Solutions, which transforms mine waste into valuable carbon storage products, and Aquarry, specialists in converting pit lakes into carbon sinks, underscores the project’s technical depth and ambition.

As the company advances testwork and operational studies, it aims to refine the decarbonisation roadmap for Renard, with potential expansion to its Adina lithium project. The outcome could unlock verified carbon credits and attract climate-focused investments, further enhancing shareholder value.

Looking Ahead

Winsome plans to release further updates on its carbon sequestration initiatives and partnerships in the coming months. The success of this strategy could redefine sustainable mining practices and offer a replicable model for the industry.