With the ever-increasing impacts of climate change, reducing carbon emissions has become one of the most urgent global agendas. Human-induced activities have led to rising global temperatures, contributing to environmental devastation, altered ecological systems, changes in weather patterns, and disruptions to public health. In response, a growing number of startups have emerged, often small in size but with ambitious goals. These startups not only focus on profitability but also contribute significantly to positive environmental outcomes. They are playing a critical role in developing solutions to combat climate change and foster a sustainable future for the planet.

Transforming waste into valuable resources is a core principle of the circular economy, and many startups are championing this concept. For example, KWOTA is revolutionising sustainability by digitising global supply chains for recycled and secondary materials. Its platform not only tracks and reports material flows but also verifies carbon reductions from recycling efforts, creating a comprehensive registry of recycled materials and carbon savings.

Similarly, Replenysh has developed a software solution and network that tracks materials throughout their entire lifecycle. Establishing a digital marketplace for traceable materials allows brands and producers to create predictable, sustainable supply chains from production to recovery and reuse, reducing landfill waste and promoting material recovery.

The Surpluss, another innovative startup, aims to create new value from excess materials and waste. Connecting companies with underutilised resources to unexpected partners opens new economic opportunities while minimising emissions. This cross-sector collaboration promotes both innovation and sustainability.

Meanwhile, Sykell digitises the circular management of reusable assets, enabling businesses to scale their circular operations. This sophisticated monitoring system tracks products from initial production through use and, ultimately, to recycling.

According to data from NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies, since 1880, Earth’s average temperature has risen by at least 1.1°C (1.9°F). Most of this warming has occurred since 1975, with an annual increase of 0.15 to 0.20°C. In fact, 2022 was recorded as the fifth hottest year, with the previous nine years constituting the hottest on record since data collection began in 1880.

In light of these alarming trends, startups are becoming essential players in the fight against climate change. By implementing sustainable practices and prioritising eco-friendly initiatives, these companies are actively contributing to the creation of a more resilient and sustainable future.

The increasing demand for efficient and comprehensive waste management is being driven by global regulations, such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws for packaging and other traceability requirements. Producers are now more accountable for their products’ entire lifecycle, and many seek innovative data and tracking solutions to monitor waste and ensure fair compensation for workers.

CleanHub, for instance, has developed an AI-powered platform that enables waste collection organisations to track and verify waste streams — particularly plastic — from the point of collection to final disposal. Similarly, Saahas Waste Management, focused on India, provides verified proof of sourcing and recycling through its traceability system, helping producers, importers, and brands maintain transparency and accuracy.

GIVO is combining technological advancements with physical infrastructure, particularly in underserved regions like Nigeria. The GIVO Technology Platform utilises the Internet of Things (IoT) and GPS technology to track materials in real-time, monitor emissions, and facilitate transparent payments for stakeholders. Additionally, GIVO operates off-grid, solar-powered facilities that engage local communities in recycling activities.

Carbon recycling has become a major focus for sustainability-focused startups. One of the most notable examples is Climeworks, which has invented Direct Air Capture technology to extract carbon dioxide from the air. The captured carbon is then used to create synthetic fuels, carbonated beverages, or other products that utilise CO2. Climeworks exemplifies how innovative solutions can reduce emissions while opening up new business opportunities.

Another example is LanzaTech, which is pioneering carbon capture and utilisation technologies that convert industrial emissions into usable products. One of LanzaTech’s notable achievements is the conversion of steel mill waste gases into ethanol, demonstrating how carbon recycling can drive economic growth while addressing major environmental issues.

These examples illustrate different strategies employed by startups to reduce carbon emissions and enhance sustainability. By identifying successful models, more startups can be encouraged to adopt similar solutions, helping to combat climate change collectively.

Startups are also collaborating with various organisations to further environmental stewardship. One such example is EOS.com, a company that specialises in satellite imaging and earth data processing for industries like mining, forestry, and agriculture. Another partner, Releaf Paper, produces paper from dried fallen leaves, promoting sustainable production methods.

Partnerships like these emphasise sustainability in both financial and environmental aspects. A collaboration with “One Tree Planted” involves planting trees for every PRO account purchased, supporting global reforestation efforts. A portion of the sales goes to reforestation programs aimed at rebuilding natural ecosystems devastated by deforestation.

Additionally, collaborations with organisations such as GreenDice — an Estonian project focused on refurbishing computers and laptops — encourage a circular economy by recycling old devices and renting them to startups. Many organisations are incorporating refurbished equipment into their offices to minimise electronic waste.

Finally, the PRNEWS.IO Gift Card offers an eco-friendly solution for marketers, PR professionals, and brands. This digital gift card can be used for media placements from an extensive catalogue or cover the full purchase price. The initiative supports sustainable practices within the marketing industry and reflects a strong commitment to environmental responsibility.

Author: Sabrina Hassan