Climeworks’ carbon Capture Efforts Face Hurdles in Iceland

​ Updated June 07,‍ 2025

Climeworks, a Swiss company specializing in direct air carbon capture, has faced difficulties despite significant backing from industrial groups. The company operates two facilities in Iceland, Orca and Mammoth, ⁢which aim⁢ to trap atmospheric carbon dioxide and‍ bury⁣ it underground, ⁤combating⁤ global warming.

These “CO₂ vacuum⁤ cleaners”‍ use Iceland’s geothermal energy to power their operations.Climeworks had planned to expand with new⁣ sites ⁣in ⁣the United States, including a factory in Louisiana slated ⁣to begin ⁤construction next year.Though, just‍ a year after launching its‍ Mammoth facility, the company is reportedly struggling.

CO2 capture at Climeworks direct air capture plant in Iceland
Climeworks’ Mammoth facility in Iceland captures carbon dioxide directly from the air. ‌(Wikimedia ‍Commons)

What’s next

The future of ⁢Climeworks’ expansion plans ⁣remains uncertain ‍as the company navigates its current challenges in achieving its carbon capture objectives.⁢ The success of direct air capture technology is crucial in the fight against climate change.