Could Direct Ocean Capture Revolutionize Carbon Removal?
While direct air capture (DAC) has dominated climate tech conversations in recent years, a promising new approach is emerging from an unexpected source: seawater. Amsterdam-based startup Brineworks is pioneering direct ocean capture (DOC) technology that could transform how we address carbon emissions.
The Cost Advantage of Ocean Capture
Current DAC methods typically cost \(230-\)630 per metric ton of CO2 removed, according to International Energy Agency data. Brineworks’ innovative seawater electrolysis technology aims to slash these costs dramatically:
- Projected cost under $100 per ton at scale
- 150x higher CO2 concentration in seawater vs. air
- Significantly lower energy requirements
The company recently secured $2.2 million in funding led by Nordic VC firm Pale Blue Dot, signaling strong investor confidence in this approach.
Why Ocean Capture Matters Now
With climate change accelerating—evidenced by devastating events like Hurricane Helene’s impact across multiple U.S. states—the urgency for effective carbon removal solutions has never been greater. The world must limit global warming to 1.5°C to avoid catastrophic consequences.
“Our technology could be sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective,” Brineworks CEO Gudfinnur Sveinsson told TechCrunch.
The Brineworks Advantage
What sets this DOC approach apart:
- Dual Output System: Produces both captured CO2 and green hydrogen
- Off-Grid Capability: Runs on renewable energy (solar/wind) with hydrogen storage
- Scalable Solution: Potential for global deployment in coastal regions
“What if any nation could make sustainable oil from renewable electricity and seawater alone? We think Brineworks found the key,” said Hampus Jakobsson of Pale Blue Dot.
The Growing DOC Ecosystem
Brineworks isn’t alone in exploring ocean-based solutions:
- Calcarea: Caltech spin-off converting shipboard CO2 into ocean salts
- Captura: Raised $34.5 million for its DOC technology
What’s Next for Brineworks?
The company is launching its first pilot program in the Canary Islands, aiming to capture one metric ton of carbon weekly. This real-world test could prove crucial for demonstrating the technology’s viability at scale.
As the climate crisis intensifies, innovative solutions like direct ocean capture may become essential tools in our global decarbonization toolkit. With its potential for lower costs and higher efficiency, DOC could represent the next frontier in carbon removal technology.
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