Google strikes $100/ton deal with Holocene to capture CO2 from the air

Google has announced a significant deal with the startup Holocene to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere at a cost of $100 per ton, a price that could revolutionize the carbon removal industry. This agreement aims to capture 100,000 tons of CO2 by 2032, which is a substantial commitment given that Holocene currently operates a small pilot plant in Tennessee with a capacity of just 10 tons per year. Holocene's technology, which utilizes a continuous chemical process to filter CO2, is seen as more efficient compared to existing methods. The deal is part of a broader effort to address climate change, although experts caution that carbon removal should not replace the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions directly. Google's carbon emissions have been rising, particularly due to energy-intensive AI operations, making this initiative crucial for the company. The carbon removal industry is still in its infancy, with only 27 direct air capture plants worldwide, collectively capturing a mere 10,000 metric tons annually. The partnership with Holocene is viewed as a step towards demonstrating the viability of carbon removal technologies, but it underscores the urgent need for companies to prioritize emission reductions alongside such initiatives.

- Google partners with Holocene to capture CO2 at $100 per ton.

- The deal aims to capture 100,000 tons of CO2 by 2032.

- Holocene's technology is designed to be more efficient than existing methods.

- Experts emphasize the importance of reducing emissions directly, not just relying on carbon capture.

- The carbon removal industry is still developing, with limited current capacity.