Amazon Invests in Direct-Air-Capture Technology

Amazon.com, the global e-commerce leader, has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 with its latest investments in direct-air-capture technology. This groundbreaking technology filters carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere, contributing to a healthier environment.

In an effort to support this eco-friendly initiative, Amazon has agreed to purchase 250,000 metric tons of carbon removal credits over the span of ten years from Stratos. The direct-air-capture plant, built by Occidental Petroleum's 1PointFive unit in Texas, aims to be commercially operational by mid-2025. The Stratos plant will employ a sophisticated system of large fans to effectively remove significant quantities of carbon dioxide from the air. This captured carbon will then be stored deep within geological formations, ensuring its containment for centuries.

To put Amazon's commitment into perspective, its purchase of carbon removal credits is tantamount to the natural carbon storage found across more than 290,000 acres of U.S. forests - an area roughly half the size of Rhode Island.

Forecasts predict that the Stratos plant will have the capacity to capture up to 500,000 metric tons of CO2 annually. 1PointFive envisions deploying more than 100 direct-air-capture facilities worldwide by 2035, aligning with current compliance and market scenarios.

In addition to its investment in the Stratos plant, Amazon's Climate Pledge Fund is also lending support to CarbonCapture Inc., a climate-technology company focused on developing modular direct-air-capture systems. These innovative systems are designed for easy upgrades and will utilize next-generation sorbents to effectively filter carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

To maximize efficiency, the Stratos plant will utilize the digital infrastructure provided by Amazon Web Services. This technology will enable real-time analysis of performance data and operational optimization. With the insights gained from this collaboration, 1PointFive can enhance the performance of future direct-air-capture plants.

Amazon's commitment to combating climate change is evident in its strategic investments in direct-air-capture technology. This demonstrates the company's dedication to achieving its net-zero carbon emissions goal by 2040. Through these efforts, Amazon is championing sustainability and leading the way towards a greener future.