Projets
Automne 2024
Experiencing CDR outdoors
This project addresses the climate "acceptance gap" by transforming abstract Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) concepts into tangible outdoor experiences, such as on-site biochar production. By integrating these hands-on demonstrations into municipal climate weeks, as well as holiday and school programs, we provide future voters with the foundational knowledge and practical understanding necessary to support Switzerland’s long-term net-zero targets.
Low-lignin biomass storage as NET
This project explores the feasibility of storing dried, low-lignin biomass under dry-anoxic conditions as a novel negative emission technology. By building and monitoring pilot storage cells in real environmental conditions, the project aims to assess long-term carbon permanence, scalability, and cost-effectiveness compared to conventional carbon dioxide removal methods. The approach could represent a breakthrough by enabling subsurface carbon storage using labile biomass instead of relying solely on geological storage solutions.
Bio-based insulation material
Laine&Sens aims to transform 700 tons of discarded Swiss wool into high-performance, bio-based insulation that stores 60 kg of CO2 per cubic meter, offering a local carbon-negative solution for the construction sector. By replacing water-intensive processes and toxic chemicals with an innovative waterless cleaning technology and natural mineral treatments, the project turns agricultural waste into a high-value carbon sink. Within the CDR Innobooster, the goal is to scientifically validate this industrial process and its lifecycle impact to accelerate the transition to sustainable, net-zero buildings.
Separatic
Engineered graphene membranes efficiently capture CO₂ at low cost with a simple, modular setup. In this project, membrane modules will be modeled based on real world conditions and validated at the lab scale. The results will then be used to design and implement a pilot-scale system at an industrial bioenergy facility.
Catalytic Facility for Nature-Based Carbon Removal
Nature-based carbon projects struggle to secure early funding, with reliance on equity and carbon prepayments limiting growth. The team is assessing the viability of a catalytic facility to channel more resources into early-stage nature-based carbon removal, focusing on the role of foundations. They are interviewing foundations to understand their needs and investment barriers, and have secured one as a committed partner for a pilot case study.
Mycotherm
Mycostrat develops mycelium-based wood composites, insulation systems, and biomaterials designed around circularity, biodegradability, and long-term carbon storage. Our products consist of 95% carbon-rich waste from other industries, including wood chips, straw, and sawdust, with carbon storage potential beyond 50 years in building applications. We combine biological processes with room-temperature manufacturing, substantially reducing embodied energy and CO₂ emissions compared to conventional insulation that are non-recyclable hybrid waste and typically incinerated at end-of-life.