A Win for the Climate, Our Coastlines, and Community: Planetary Wins $1M XPRIZE Award
On April 23, Planetary was named a winner of the XPRIZE Carbon Removal XFACTOR Award. This is a recognition that comes with a $1 million prize and a much deeper affirmation: That seawater restoration to rebalance the climate is not just viable, but vital.
The XPRIZE Carbon Removal competition, launched in 2021, set out to tackle one of humanity’s biggest challenges: how to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and ocean at meaningful, scalable levels. Over four years, more than 1,300 teams from around the world answered that call. Planetary was selected as one of just two XFACTOR winners in the entire competition for our leadership in the ocean-based carbon removal pathway.
Why This Matters For Us All
This award is a milestone for our team, but the impact goes so far beyond us. This is a win for all: The ocean, frontline coastal communities, and a climate future that is still within reach.
It reflects the strength of a simple idea: Restoring what’s been lost.
Planetary’s approach restores the ocean’s natural ability to absorb carbon dioxide by restoring seawater chemistry. Our work is grounded in science, deeply collaborative, and carefully monitored. We integrate with existing infrastructure— like water treatment facilities— to help coastal waters absorb more carbon, reduce acidity, and support marine life.
The process of seawater restoration may not be a household phrase yet, but the impact is real. Our pilot projects have already shown measurable results and meaningful potential for scale. Its not speculative, it’s happening right now.
Foundations in Partnership
We couldn’t do this alone. Our success is made possible by the trust and support of coastal communities, the diligence of regulators, the insight of researchers, and the shared belief that climate action should serve both people and ecosystems.
We are proud that the XPRIZE award recognizes not just innovation, but responsibility. Not just what we’re building, but how we’re building it: With listening, transparency, and respect.
What’s Next
This moment propels not only us forward, but carbon removal itself. With this recognition, we’ll continue to expand our partnerships, improve our technology, and refine the measurement and verification that ensures every step we take is one that matters.
We believe seawater restoration can help turn the tide, literally and figuratively. We continue to be deeply committed to proving what’s possible when science and stewardship come together.
A win for carbon removal is a win for all. We extend our sincere congratulations to the grand prize winners, and we recognize the efforts of all of the XPRIZE carbon removal competitors throughout the duration of the XPRIZE Carbon Removal competition.
