Introduction to SPRINGBOARD®
The startup transforms PET plastic waste into high-performing carbon-loving materials using simple, inexpensive chemistry. These materials efficiently bind CO2 from both air and flue gas, can be regenerated many times, and integrate into customizable filter systems.
The team consists of inventor (PhD student in Organic Chemistry), her supervisor (Associate Professor), a business developer, a sustainability specialist, and an incoming process engineer.
They aim to provide a full-service solution – including system design, production oversight, implementation, and maintenance — to industrials looking to reduce their carbon footprint in a sustainable and economical manner. Their initial focus is on waste-to-energy and construction materials in Denmark.
They are now seeking industrial partnerships to demonstrate its technology.
Areas for sparring
For this SPRINGBOARD®, panelists with competencies/experience within these themes, are needed for sparring:
- 1. Market Entry Strategy
How they effectively engage early adopters in high-emission industries while ensuring regulatory compliance? How could they best communicate or ‘justify’ our offering’s high CapEx? What regulatory certifications and compliance measures need to be prioritized?
- 2. Business Model Development
What’s the optimal balance between direct sales, licensing, and services? How should pricing vary by segment? How can the startup maximize value across DAC and point-source capture?
- 3. Funding and Scale-Up
What investment strategies best support large-scale deployment? How can they secure funding for commercialization while maintaining financial sustainability? What milestones will attract large-scale investors?
Industry: Environment, Climate
Development stage: Proof of Concept
Company's CVR region: Capitol
Competencies in the panel:
- Market Entry Strategy
- Business Model Development
- Funding and investment strategies
Note: This SPRINGBOARD® will be held in English
The startup is pioneering a novel approach to carbon capture by transforming PET waste into a solid CO₂ sorbent, addressing both plastic pollution and industrial emissions. Unlike traditional carbon capture technologies, which rely on costly and energy-intensive methods, this solution offers a durable, low-cost, and energy-efficient alternative. The sorbent operates at high temperatures, making it ideal for flue gas capture in industries such as cement, steel, and waste-to-energy plants. By repurposing widely available PET waste, this technology not only reduces emissions but also contributes to a circular economy, turning waste into a valuable resource.
The business model is designed for scalability, offering multiple pathways to market adoption. The company plans to sell CO₂ sorbents directly to industrial customers, license its technology to large-scale partners, and provide turnkey flue gas capture systems, including design, production oversight, implementation, and maintenance. These flexible options allow for both direct deployment and broader industry integration. As regulatory pressure increases and industries seek cost-effective decarbonization solutions, this innovation positions itself as a competitive alternative to conventional carbon capture methods.
The market for carbon capture is growing rapidly, driven by government policies and corporate sustainability goals. The European Union, the U.S., and other global markets are investing heavily in emission-reduction technologies, creating a strong demand for scalable and affordable solutions. While competitors rely on expensive chemical solvents or high-maintenance solid sorbents, this company’s approach leverages PET waste to lower material costs while maintaining long-term stability and efficiency.
Currently, the startup is finalizing its proof of concept and engaging with potential industrial partners for pilot projects. The next steps include scaling production, demonstrating real-world performance, and refining the commercialization strategy. Funding efforts are underway to support pilot deployments, with a focus on venture capital, government grants, and strategic industry partnerships. The long-term vision is to become a leader in sustainable carbon capture, helping industries reduce emissions while contributing to global environmental sustainability.
