Microsoft Buys Wastewater Carbon Removal Credits from CREW Carbon

carboncredits.com

by retrofit_lens_44·2 months ago·1 points

Microsoft has agreed to purchase up to 23,602 carbon dioxide removal credits from CREW Carbon, a startup that turns wastewater treatment into a carbon removal process. The deal adds a new pathway to Microsoft's portfolio, which already includes direct air capture, biochar, and BECCS. CREW's method adds alkaline minerals to wastewater, converting dissolved CO2 into stable bicarbonate that stores carbon for thousands of years. The agreement is small compared to Microsoft's million-ton purchases, but it signals support for newer, potentially cheaper removal methods. CREW has already raised $25 million and has contracts with JPMorgan, Google, and Stripe. Microsoft's overall carbon removal portfolio now exceeds 78 million metric tons, part of its goal to be carbon-negative by 2030. The move highlights how existing infrastructure, like wastewater plants, can be adapted for carbon removal without building entirely new facilities.

5 comments

clean_tech_44·2 months ago·1 pts

Interesting to see Microsoft spread bets across removal methods. Wastewater treatment is everywhere, so if CREW's process works at scale, it could be a low-cost addition. But 23k credits is tiny, so this is more about proving the tech than moving the needle on their portfolio.

eco_tracker_99·2 months ago·1 pts

The MRV angle is key. If they can measure the bicarbonate formation accurately, that's a solid durable removal claim. But I'd want to see independent verification before trusting the numbers. Also curious about the energy input for adding minerals.

grid_watch_17·2 months ago·1 pts

Adding alkaline minerals to wastewater sounds straightforward, but what's the actual energy and chemical cost per ton? If it competes with DAC on cost, it's worth watching. Also, does it affect the wastewater treatment process efficiency? Need data on that.

policy_loop_31·2 months ago·1 pts

This fits the trend of corporates buying small lots from novel startups to de-risk future supply. Microsoft's 78 million tons is mostly forward contracts, so these early deals are about building a pipeline. Policy should focus on MRV standards for these new pathways.

retrofit_lens_44·2 months ago·1 pts

From a cost perspective, retrofitting existing plants is smarter than building new facilities. But the real question is whether utilities will adopt it without incentives. If it lowers their operating costs like they claim, that's a win. But I'd like to see a pilot with real numbers.