EXPLORINEER
en

Archive — US — techcrunch

Alt Carbon scores $12M seed to scale carbon removal in India

Alt Carbon, a climatetech startup founded by siblings Shrey and Sparsh Agarwal, has raised $12 million in seed funding to scale carbon removal in India. Utilizing enhanced rock weathering, the company aims to transform farmlands into carbon sinks while supporting local agriculture, targeting the removal of 5 million tons of CO2 by 2030.

Key points

  • Alt Carbon was founded by siblings Shrey and Sparsh Agarwal to use their family tea estate for carbon removal.
  • The startup raises $12M in seed funding, with investments primarily from Lachy Groom.
  • Enhanced rock weathering with basalt dust is key; it helps lock carbon for over 10,000 years while improving soil health.
  • Initial pilot project on 500 acres expanded to North Bengal, targeting a total of 500,000 hectares.
  • The startup developed a mix of basalt and organic materials, named Hari Maati, to enhance farmer engagement.
  • Alt Carbon aims to provide carbon credits at $270 per ton, significantly cheaper than direct air capture solutions.
  • Three measurement layers track the weathering process and carbon removal effectiveness.
  • The startup has secured partnerships with various companies and organizations for scaling and verification.

Why it matters

  • The push for carbon removal aligns with global climate goals, particularly as nations strive to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
  • The rise of climatetech startups is a prominent trend in 2025, focusing on sustainable practices and technologies.
  • Enhanced rock weathering is gaining attention as a viable method for carbon sequestration in agricultural practices worldwide.
  • Investment in sustainability is a key trend, with significant funding flowing into innovative climate solutions.

Alt Carbon's innovative approach to carbon removal not only addresses climate change but also revitalizes local agriculture, setting a precedent in the climatetech landscape as a model for sustainable development with strong investment backing.