I first became aware of Climeworks as a result of Microsoft's involvement with the firm, and became intrigued by the novel solution the firm has invented to one of humanity's greatest challenges. And now, I've had the opportunity to go and see it for myself.
Announced back in 2020, Microsoft unveiled a 10-year partnership with Climeworks as part of its goal to become carbon-neutral by 2030. Carbon neutrality or "net-zero" also includes the retroactive removal of legacy emissions created by the company, dating back to its founding in the 70s. To achieve net-zero and move towards carbon negativity, Microsoft has adopted a broad array of proactive climate initiatives to reduce their active emissions today, but also contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gases already present in the atmosphere. One part of that overall puzzle is, indeed, direct air capture company Climeworks.
