#83: Capturing Carbon with Direct Air Capture

Nov 12, 2024

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Hello Earthlings! Today, we're diving into a pioneering approach to carbon capture with direct air capture (DAC), a technology that pulls CO₂ directly from the atmosphere. While DAC alone can’t reverse climate change, it could be instrumental in maintaining critical temperature limits if it scales up efficiently. Host Lisa Ann Pinkerton interviews Anca Timofte, CEO and co-founder of Holocene, whose innovative, low-energy DAC method has secured a $10 million contract with Google. Anca explains how Holocene’s process leverages chemical reactions to trap CO₂ at low temperatures, maximizing efficiency and minimizing energy use. With plans for commercial-scale plants in the early 2030s, Anca envisions DAC as a crucial component in global carbon reduction efforts.

Restoring Our Faith in Humanity this week is the inspiring story of Mr. Trash Wheel, a solar and hydro-powered trash interceptor transforming Baltimore's waterways. This quirky, googly-eyed invention reminds us that every action counts in the fight for a sustainable future.

Key Points

Direct Air Capture (DAC) Technology: Anca Timofte, CEO and co-founder of Holocene, discusses how DAC can remove CO₂ directly from the atmosphere. This technology isn’t a total solution to climate change but could play a crucial role in reducing atmospheric carbon if scaled effectively.
Path to Commercialization: Holocene is preparing to scale its DAC technology with a commercial plant expected in the early 2030s. Anca outlines the stages of development, from pilot to demonstration plants, aiming for a meaningful impact on carbon capture capacity.
Economic and Policy Drivers: The episode covers how financial tools, like the 45Q tax credit and government programs, such as DAC hubs, are supporting the growth of the carbon capture industry. These incentives aim to make DAC more viable and attract broader industry investment.
Carbon Capture’s Broader Impact: Beyond simply removing carbon, DAC could make CO₂ a marketable commodity. This potential new market could incentivize further CO₂ removal, showcasing DAC as a tool for both environmental and economic impact.

Voices on The Show:

Anca Timofte, CEO and co-founder of Holocene
LinkedIn

Lisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability
LinkedIn: Lisa Ann Pinkerton
X - Lisa Ann Pinkerton
Instagram - @LisiAnni
Technica Communications
Women in Cleantech and Sustainability

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