Microsoft has signed its largest marine carbon dioxide removal (mCDR) deal to date with Ebb Carbon, committing to the removal of 350,000 tonnes of CO2 over the next 10 years. This agreement is one of the largest investments in carbon removal on the market. It is anticipated to accelerate the growth of the marine CDR sector. Microsoft Carbon Marine Sustainability is a key focus of this deal.
Details of the Agreement
Under the agreement with Microsoft, Ebb Carbon will deliver an initial 1,333 tonnes of CO2 removals. In addition, an option for an additional 350,000 tonnes over the 10 years will also be available. This aligns with Microsoft’s goals for Carbon Marine Sustainability.
To ensure the effectiveness of its carbon removal efforts, Ebb Carbon employs the Isometric Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) protocol for measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) of the carbon dioxide removed. This guarantees that the removal meets the high-quality market standards set by a rigorous, science-based registry.
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Ebb Carbon’s Growing Influence
Established in 2020, Ebb Carbon is emerging as a leading provider of ocean-based CO2 removal solutions. This significant deal with Microsoft reinforces the company’s position in the industry. Recently, Ebb Carbon successfully raised $22 million during its Series A funding round. This encompasses their ongoing efforts in Microsoft Carbon Marine Sustainability initiatives.
In addition, it is operating a pilot facility in partnership with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) in Washington.
Ebb Carbon’s innovative approach has garnered recognition from notable organizations. The company was shortlisted as a finalist for the XPRIZE. It also reached the semifinals of the DOE’s carbon removal purchase prize. Their achievements contribute to the broader goals of Microsoft Carbon Marine Sustainability.
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Innovative Carbon Removal Technology
Ebb Carbon explores the ocean’s potential for carbon removal through an electrochemical ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) method. This technique draws down carbon from the atmosphere into ocean water, where it can be stored for thousands of years. Such innovative approaches are central to Microsoft’s Carbon Marine Sustainability strategy.
This process addresses atmospheric carbon emissions while restoring the ocean’s pH balance and mitigating acidification, benefiting marine ecosystems.