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280 Earth has launched its first direct air capture plant in The Dalles, Oregon, designed to capture 500 tons of CO2 annually, with plans to scale up significantly. The company secured a $50 million Series B funding round led by Builders VC to support this expansion. 280 Earth’s technology, developed at Google X, aims to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels and produce clean water.
280 Earth’s Ambitious Launch
280 Earth is dedicated to addressing climate change through innovative direct air capture (DAC) technology. The company, incubated at Google X, The Moonshot Factory, focuses on developing scalable solutions to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels. Since industrialization, CO2 levels have risen from 280 parts per million (ppm) to 425 ppm, and 280 Earth aims to reverse this trend by removing excess CO2, producing fresh water, and utilizing waste heat.
How Direct Air Capture Works
DAC technology captures CO2 directly from ambient air, sequestering it permanently or using it as a feedstock for industrial processes. 280 Earth’s DAC system is notable for its continuous flow process, low energy consumption, and ability to use waste heat from various industrial sources. The technology not only removes CO2 but also generates clean water, making it a multifaceted approach to climate mitigation.
A Milestone Achievement: The First DAC Plant in Oregon
The new DAC facility in The Dalles, Oregon, represents a significant step in carbon capture technology. Initially capable of capturing 500 tons of CO2 annually, the plant aims to scale up to 20,000 tons per year. The facility uses low-carbon electricity from hydropower and incorporates a low-temperature desorption process to minimize energy consumption. Equipment is primarily sourced from American vendors and assembled with significant union labor content.
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Building Partnerships: Local and Global Collaborations
Local partnerships have been crucial in the development of 280 Earth’s DAC facility. The Port of The Dalles, Wasco County, and the State of Oregon have played key roles in supporting the project. Global investors and partners, including Builders VC and Alphabet, Inc., provide financial backing and strategic insight, enabling the company to advance its technology and expand its operations.
The $50M Series B Funding Round
The recent $50 million Series B funding round, led by Builders VC, is a significant milestone for 280 Earth. Other notable investors include Gideon Yu and Alphabet, Inc. This investment will support the scale-up of DAC technology and the development of additional facilities. The funding will help 280 Earth meet urgent CO2 reduction timelines and contribute to global climate goals.
Vision for the Future: Scaling and Impact
280 Earth plans to expand its DAC technology to capture over 20,000 tons of CO2 per year at full buildout. The company is also planning additional DAC facilities throughout the United States. By scaling its technology, 280 Earth aims to play a critical role in achieving global CO2 reduction targets and mitigating climate change.
Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future
280 Earth has achieved significant milestones with the launch of its first DAC plant in Oregon and the successful $50 million funding round. The company’s innovative approach to carbon capture and its focus on scalability position it as a key player in the fight against climate change. As 280 Earth continues to expand its technology and operations, it will contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
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