Zero: The Climate Race How carbon removal pioneer Climeworks is tackling its first major layoff
May 21, 2025
Jan Wurzbacher, co-founder and co-CEO of Climeworks, discusses the critical challenges facing carbon capture technology in the wake of US government funding cuts. He shares insights on the recent layoff of 106 staff members and the emotional impact on the team. Wurzbacher highlights the operational performance of their ORCA plant and the upcoming Mammoth project. The conversation touches on the role of consumer engagement in carbon credits and the complexities of securing sustainable funding to meet ambitious climate goals. Tune in for a look into the future of carbon removal!
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Climeworks' Technical Milestones
- Climeworks has demonstrated that direct air capture is technically feasible and commercially viable at scale.
- They pioneered selling captured CO2 to clients like Coca-Cola and combined capture with permanent underground storage.
Shift to Efficiency and Profitability
- Climeworks is moving from rapid growth to a phase focused on efficiency and profitability.
- This shift requires restructuring and layoffs to prepare for sustainable long-term scaling.
Order Backlog and Staff Reduction Link
- Climeworks has a large order book but deliveries lag because orders finance future plant construction.
- Staff reductions aim to optimize costs and prepare for efficient operation of existing plants, not reduce output.