Brineworks unveils cost-effective ocean carbon capture technology

In recent years, the focus on carbon removal has shifted from direct air capture to innovative methods like direct ocean capture (DOC). A notable player in this field is Brineworks, a startup based in Amsterdam, which specializes in seawater electrolysis technology. This method is projected to cost under $100 per ton of CO2, significantly lower than the current industry standard of $230 to $630 per ton for direct air capture. Brineworks recently secured $2.2 million in funding to advance its technology, which not only captures CO2 from seawater but also produces green hydrogen, creating a potential revenue stream. The CEO of Brineworks, Gudfinnur Sveinsson, emphasizes the sustainability and scalability of their approach, which can operate off-grid using renewable energy sources like solar and wind. The oceans contain a much higher concentration of CO2 compared to the atmosphere, making the energy required for DOC significantly less than that for direct air capture. This efficiency positions Brineworks as a potential leader in the emerging field of sea-borne carbon capture. The startup is currently initiating its first pilot project in the Canary Islands, aiming to capture one metric ton of carbon per week. Other companies, such as Calcarea and Captura, are also exploring similar technologies, indicating a growing interest in ocean-based carbon removal solutions. As the world grapples with the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, innovations like those from Brineworks could play a crucial role in achieving global climate goals.