Climate Tech Highlights #18

Hello, there!

Long time, no see! After a month break due to academic reasons, I’m excited to be back with the latest updates from the climate tech world.

I’m also thrilled to share that I’ve started curating a monthly newsletter on the topic as part of my role at Climate Ventures. If you want to follow it too, sign up here (currently, editions are available only in Portuguese).

Now, let’s dive into last week’s highlights in the climate tech landscape!

Around the globe 🌎

• Africa’s First Carbon Market Launches in Egypt: Egypt has officially launched Africa’s first carbon market, a significant milestone in combating climate change. Announced by Minister Rania Al-Mashat at a conference, this market will facilitate carbon credit trading and aims to align with Egypt’s Vision 2030 and the National Climate Change Strategy 2050. Companies like Isis Organic and Daltex have already engaged in credit purchases. The market, supported by the World Bank, represents a new frontier for Africa's climate action. Read more

• India Tests Climate-Resilient Seed Varieties: In a bid to enhance farm productivity and resilience, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched 109 high-yielding, climate-resilient seed varieties. Developed by ICAR and state agriculture universities, these seeds cover 61 crops and aim to improve farmers’ incomes and adapt to changing climate conditions. Among them are new rice and wheat varieties, plus numerous pulses, oilseeds, and horticultural crops. Read more

• Northvolt Shifts Focus, Closes San Francisco R&D Centre: Battery giant Northvolt is closing its R&D centre in San Francisco to consolidate its research efforts at its Västerås site near Stockholm. The San Francisco site was developing lithium-metal battery technology under its US startup Cuberg, acquired in 2021. The move comes amid production delays and the abandonment of plans for a new factory in Borlänge, Sweden. Northvolt is reevaluating its expansion timelines in Germany and Canada to ensure its main factory in Skellefteå meets its targets. Read more

A glance at Brazil 🇧🇷

• Lab-Grown Diamonds and Recycled Gold Shine: Gabriela Barbosa, founder of Aurora in Belo Horizonte, is making waves with her use of lab-grown diamonds and recycled gold. This trend is gaining traction among luxury brands like Pandora and Prada. Lab-grown diamonds reduce CO2 emissions and environmental impact, while recycled gold offers a lower footprint than newly mined metals. However, transparency in labeling and production remains a concern. Read more

• Doma’s Unique Approach to Carbon Credits: Doma, a startup focusing on carbon credits, is making headlines with its plan to list on a Canadian exchange. The company is acquiring Amazonian land for preservation and carbon credit generation. With a goal to expand from 30,000 to 200,000 hectares in three years, Doma’s innovative model involves partnering with Systemica to manage and trade carbon credits, aiming to support forest conservation and sustainable development. Read more

Don't miss out! 👀

• 25 Climate Tech Startups to Watch 2024: Last Day to Apply: Trellis is showcasing 25 cutting-edge climate solutions on its annual list. Early-stage startups with seed or series A funding are invited to apply by August 7 (deadline extended three days). Selected startups will be featured on Trellis.net and present their products at the VERGE event in San Jose, Calif. Don’t miss this chance to be recognized! Apply here

• Climate Tech on the Ballot: A guide to how US election outcomes could impact climate tech and tax credits in the IRA. Stay informed on how political changes may affect climate technology funding and policy.

• Brazilian greentech Wosi Seguros is hiring! The startup is on the lookout for a talented Marketing Analyst to join their dynamic team and drive their growth. If you’re passionate about marketing and sustainability, send your CV to [email protected] to apply.

Thanks for reading!  If you enjoyed this newsletter, please tell your friends.

If you haven't subscribed to get our weekly editions yet, what are you waiting for? 😬

See you next Tuesday!