Pioneering Startups Gather in Singapore to Accelerate Carbon Capture and Ecosystem Restoration

In a progressive leap toward sustainable ocean solutions, eleven innovative startups are participating in the Blue Carbon Innovation Studio, a groundbreaking program hosted in Singapore by Idemitsu and Hatch Blue. This collaborative studio is designed to accelerate the development of impactful blue carbon initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change through marine-based carbon capture.

The two-week program gathers emerging leaders in the blue carbon sector to work with global experts and receive guidance on navigating the unique challenges and opportunities in this field. Reflecting on the launch, Wayne Murphy, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Hatch Blue, expressed his enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled to work with these forward-thinking entrepreneurs who are set to make significant contributions to blue carbon solutions. This studio not only connects these startups to resources but also offers a powerful network for collaboration and growth.”

Keitaro Sugihara, President and CEO of Idemitsu Americas Holdings, emphasized the potential of the sector, stating, “As a leader in energy, Idemitsu recognizes the vast possibilities that blue carbon offers for sustainable development. This studio is an exciting step forward as we support technologies that can transform decarbonization in Southeast Asia and beyond.”

 Introducing the Startups

Here’s a glimpse into the pioneering startups shaping the future of blue carbon:

1. BlueGreen Water Technologies: Restores ecological balance by addressing harmful algal blooms, resulting in greenhouse gas removal and sustainable development.

   2. Blusink: Innovates with “Blusinkies” — apple-sized disks that foster carbon storage in marine ecosystems for millennia.

3. CarbonEthics: Indonesia-based, specializing in blue carbon and expanding to peatland and green ecosystems for climate resilience.

4. Distant Imagery Solutions: UAE-based, developing drone technologies for coastal habitat restoration through precision mangrove planting.

5. Kumi Analytics: Singapore-based data service utilizing remote sensing for mangrove carbon sequestration monitoring.

6. MacroCarbon: Cultivates ocean-grown seaweed to produce sustainable fuels and biochar, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

7. NetaCarbon: AI-powered platform matching companies with tailored carbon offset projects for high-quality climate impact.

8. Ocean Ledger: Provides geospatial software for coastal risk assessment, aiding conservation and infrastructure planning.

9. OoNee Sea Ranch: Develops sustainable sea urchin aquaculture to help restore kelp forests and coastal ecosystems.

10. Scape Carbon Inc: Creates on-site decarbonization solutions for industries, leveraging seawater and minerals for CO₂ capture.

11. ZerOcean Energy: Focuses on large-scale deployment of ocean-based carbon removal and alkalinity enhancement technologies.

Participants in the studio gain valuable insights and form connections with experts and peers. Dr. Mar Fernández-Méndez, Founder of MacroCarbon, shared her experience: “The diversity within our cohort is inspiring. We’re all here to make an impact, and I believe these connections will spark future collaborations.”

 Exploring Blue Carbon’s Potential

Despite its significance, blue carbon — carbon capture through marine ecosystems like mangroves and seagrass — remains underrecognized. “Blue carbon captures and stores carbon in marine ecosystems and is essential in the fight against climate change,” explained Peter Green, Seaweed Project Advisor at Hatch Innovation Services. “Our goal is to support these startups in realizing this high-impact solution.”

 Join the Pitch Day

The Blue Carbon Innovation Studio will conclude with a pitch day in Singapore, inviting government representatives, investors, and industry experts to explore the next wave of blue carbon technology.

To get in touch with Hatch Blue or Idemitsu regarding the blue carbon programme, contact: benedict@hatch.blue or peter@hatch.blue

Source: NOAA Climate.gov graphic adapted from original by Sarah Battle, NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory.