Deep Sky and Rubicon Carbon Partner for High-Integrity DAC Carbon Removal Credits

Canada-based Deep Sky, the first tech-agnostic Direct Air Capture (DAC) project developer, has signed a multi-year deal with Rubicon Carbon, a leader in carbon credit management. This agreement makes Deep Sky the first DAC provider in Rubicon Carbon’s curated credit portfolios.

Additionally, the partnership speeds up permanent carbon removal solutions. setting a strong standard for the voluntary carbon market (VCM).

Charlie Renzoni, VP Carbon Markets at Deep Sky, said,

“Partnering with Rubicon Carbon enables us to bring our DAC project portfolio to a broader audience of enterprises. Rubicon’s platform and active portfolio management ensure that our credits reach businesses around the world, driving greater climate impact.”

Rubicon to Sell Deep Sky’s Verified Carbon Removal Credits from 2025

Rubicon Carbon provides various carbon credit portfolios to support companies in achieving sustainability goals. Through this partnership, Rubicon will offer its clients Deep Sky’s premium DAC carbon removal credits. Deliveries will be verified from 2025 to 2033. These credits will come from Deep Sky’s Alpha facility in Canada, launching this summer.
Tom Montag, CEO at Rubicon Carbon, exuberantly noted,

“We’re excited to work with Deep Sky and offer our clients early access to their innovative DAC projects. This collaboration reflects our mission to provide best-in-class carbon portfolios that help accelerate climate progress.”
Let’s discover more details about this facility…

Deep Sky Alpha: A First-of-Its-Kind Carbon Removal Hub in Canada

Deep Sky Alpha is the first center to merge different direct air capture technologies and will initially remove 3,000 tonnes of CO₂ per year. The company’s goal is to develop low-cost, energy-efficient, and scalable carbon removal methods quickly.

The facility operates entirely on renewable solar energy, ensuring that carbon capture does not increase emissions. Like any other DAC, Alpha also captures carbon dioxide from the air and stores it two kilometers underground for thousands of years.

Alpha stands out for using a tech-agnostic approach, allowing multiple DAC technologies to work side by side. This reduces risk, increases success, and speeds up deployment without needing separate test sites.

Furthermore, the company collects performance data year-round, even in Canada’s harsh weather, using standard tools. Its software tracks and compares each technology, revealing the best ones for larger use.

What does the Partnership Offer to Rubicon Carbon’s Clients?

Rubicon Carbon’s platform connects credits with buyers who have robust and clear climate plans. This boosts transparency and accountability in the market.

The agreement brings four key benefits for Rubicon Carbon clients:

  1. Early Access to Scalable DAC Credits: Clients can access high-quality carbon removal starting in 2025 from Deep Sky’s Alpha facility.
  2. Built-In Innovation: Deep Sky’s “active portfolio within a portfolio” model enables real-time testing and scaling of next-gen DAC solutions.

  3. Reduced Risk, High Integrity: Deep Sky has passed Rubicon’s strict due diligence, ensuring project credibility and delivery confidence.

  4. Canadian Clean Energy Advantage: All Deep Sky DAC projects use Canada’s low-carbon energy grid and benefit from strong regulatory support and geology for permanent carbon storage.

Building Scalable Climate Solutions

For Deep Sky, this long-term agreement ensures steady revenue, helping to scale operations and fund innovation. For Rubicon, it enhances its portfolio with reliable, science-backed carbon removals to meet demand from companies seeking permanent solutions.

This collaboration boosts trust in the voluntary carbon market by connecting verified DAC projects with buyers who value transparency, integrity, and impact.

As new technologies are tested and improved, Deep Sky aims to enhance efficiency and cut costs, which is essential for making DAC an accessible global solution.

Notably, the company is backed by $100 million in funding, including a $40 million grant from Breakthrough Energy Catalyst, to boost large-scale DAC projects.

carbon removal DAC

Why Demand for Direct Air Capture (DAC) is Rising?

Direct Air Capture is vital for climate action. While it doesn’t replace emission cuts, it balances out hard-to-abate emissions. Alongside nature-based solutions and other technologies, DAC forms a vital part of the full carbon removal strategy.

Significantly, one key advantage is that DAC uses minimal land and water while storing CO₂ safely underground for thousands of years, offering a reliable, long-term solution. This is why it plays a crucial role in achieving net zero.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Direct Air Capture will remove over 85 million tonnes of CO₂ by 2030 and nearly 1 billion tonnes by 2050, rising sharply from almost zero today. To hit these targets, the industry will need to scale up rapidly.

However, capturing CO₂ directly from the air remains costly because air contains much less CO₂ than industrial emissions, requiring more energy. Currently, DAC costs range between $125 and $335 per tonne of CO₂ captured.

direct air capture DAC

Still, with ongoing innovation and increased deployment, IEA expects DAC costs to fall below $100 per tonne by 2030, depending on the technology type, energy prices, and location. DAC could become an increasingly affordable and effective carbon removal method in regions with abundant, low-cost renewable energy.

All in all, this partnership between Deep Sky and Rubicon Carbon is a major step for carbon removal and for shaping a low-carbon future for Canada. It shows how strong collaboration can drive real climate action, build trust in carbon markets, and help.

Goldman Sachs Launches Green Bonds ETF for Emerging Markets

Goldman Sachs Asset Management (GSAM) has launched its new Emerging Markets Green and Social Bond Active UCITS ETF, known as GEMS. This ETF focuses on green and social bonds issued by both governments and companies in emerging markets. It has an expense ratio of 0.55%. This gives investors a cost-effective way to back environmental and social projects. At the same time, they can aim for solid financial returns.

GEMS is now on major European stock exchanges. This shows GSAM’s strong move into sustainable investment solutions. Hilary Lopez at Goldman Sachs Asset Management stated: 

“Our clients are showing continued demand for access to leading active capabilities, combined with the control and convenience of ETFs. Following the launch of our core active Fixed Income and Equity building blocks, we are leveraging the leading capabilities and expertise of our Green, Sustainable, Social & Impact Bonds Team to help investors diversify their fixed income exposure and drive impact across emerging markets.”

Green Gold Mines: Why Emerging Markets Are ESG Hotspots

Emerging markets face serious issues like limited infrastructure, poverty, and pollution. That’s why they are a strong focus for investors looking to make a difference. These markets often offer high-impact opportunities where green and social projects—such as clean energy or affordable housing—can create immediate change.

According to the International Finance Corporation, emerging markets could see up to $23 trillion in climate-focused investments by 2030. These investments not only help reduce environmental harm but also offer strong growth potential. GEMS helps investors make a real impact by focusing on these regions. This way, they can support change and enjoy long-term financial growth.

Climate-Smart Investment Potential 2016–2030
Source: IFC Investment Opportunities Report

Many investors now prefer funds that consider Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors. Globally, ESG-focused investments already exceed $17 trillion. As this trend continues, products like GEMS are appealing to investors. They seek both returns and impact.

How Do Green and Social Bonds Work?

Green bonds raise funds for projects that protect the environment. These may include wind farms, solar panels, or clean transport systems. Social bonds support efforts like building schools, improving access to clean water, and offering affordable health services.

green bond in sustainable bond market Moody
Source: Moody

The GEMS ETF invests in both types. This approach helps the fund tackle environmental and social issues at the same time. The green bond market alone has surpassed $2 trillion, showing strong investor interest. Social bonds are also growing quickly as governments and businesses seek to address social problems more directly.

GEMS takes an active management approach, unlike many passive ETFs. The fund’s team picks and adjusts the bond portfolio. They focus on sustainability goals and future expectations. This strategy helps avoid weak projects and gives the ETF the flexibility to focus on high-quality investments.

Carbon Cuts and Climate Gains: GEMS’ Impact Strategy

Emerging markets often have large carbon footprints because of their heavy use of fossil fuels and rapid development. GEMS helps fight this by investing in clean energy, energy savings, and other projects that lower emissions. These green projects can make a big difference in reducing global carbon levels.

Goldman Sachs uses strict screening methods to make sure the bonds they include actually help the environment. This reduces the risk of “greenwashing,” where projects claim to be green without real proof.

Social investments also have climate benefits. For example, housing projects in the fund might use energy-saving designs. Better healthcare and education help communities handle extreme weather and other climate-related stresses. 

Global Trends in ESG Bond Markets

As climate finance needs reach an estimated $1.3 trillion a year, markets are searching for greater accountability and measurable impact. Sustainable bond markets are expected to play a key role. Emerging markets are taking steps, like ASEAN and Latin American green taxonomies. These initiatives create new chances for different issuers.

GEMS now joins a growing asset class. It helps meet the demand for strong, impact-focused bond investments in high-growth markets. Moreover, the GEMS ETF enters the market at a time when sustainable bonds are quickly becoming mainstream investment tools.

Analysts expect that by 2025, about 30% of global bond sales may be green or social. That’s a large shift toward combining financial growth with responsibility.

In emerging markets in 2023, green bond issuance grew 45% year-over-year, totalling $135 billion. Meanwhile, broader GSSS issuance exceeded $1 trillion, reaching 2.5% of global bond issuance.

bond issuances Goldman Sachs
Source: Goldman Sachs

Amundi forecasts GSSS bond issuance in emerging markets to grow around 7% annually through 2025. Globally, green bonds outperformed traditional bonds by about 2% in 2024 and reached a record issuance of $447 billion, reaching another milestone in 2024.

What Sets GEMS ETF Apart

GEMS fits this trend by offering diverse exposure to sustainable bonds in fast-growing economies, backed by GSAM’s decade-long ESG and emerging market bond expertise.

GSAM brings over a decade of experience in fixed income and ESG investing. Their skilled team can spot strong projects in places that may carry more risk, such as developing countries. This gives them an edge in finding value while managing potential problems like currency shifts or political changes.

Also, GEMS being listed on major European exchanges—like the London Stock Exchange, Borsa Italiana, and Deutsche Börse—makes it easy to access. It works for both institutional investors and individuals seeking access to emerging markets and sustainable finance.

Why Active ESG Investing Matters

Emerging markets can be unpredictable. Governments may change policies quickly, and local currencies can be unstable. By using an active management strategy, GSAM’s team responds to these shifts and adjusts the fund accordingly.

This hands-on approach is vital for maintaining a strong mix of bonds that aim for both social impact and solid returns. It helps avoid poor-performing investments and directs funds into projects that truly meet ESG standards.

For investors looking for growth, social impact, and environmental gain all in one, GEMS may be worth considering. The ETF balances risk by spreading investments across different countries and sectors in the emerging world. It’s also competitive from a cost point of view, helping make sustainable investing more accessible.

As more money shifts to ESG goals, sustainability is becoming mainstream in finance. Tools like GEMS will probably have a bigger impact. Investors now have an efficient option for putting their money into the areas of the world that need it most, helping build a more sustainable future while also seeking steady financial performance.

Palantir (PLTR Stock): AI for Carbon Neutrality – A Software Giant’s Sustainable Footprint in 2025

Palantir Technologies (NYSE: PLTR) has stood out among AI companies by achieving carbon neutrality across its global operations in 2024. Palantir is cutting emissions by 31% from its 2019 baseline. It offsets the rest with high-quality carbon credits.

This achievement shows how software companies can lead in ESG even without making physical products. Its “product-first” strategy helps customers create climate solutions. At the same time, it keeps its own footprint low. This is ideal for investors who care about AI and sustainability. Let’s uncover how Palantir achieves its net-zero goal. 

Cutting Code and Carbon: How Palantir Hits Net Zero

Palantir reached a major sustainability milestone in 2024 by achieving carbon neutrality across its global operations. This was made possible by reducing its total greenhouse gas emissions by 31% compared to its 2019 baseline.

In 2024, Palantir reported emissions of 23,018 metric tons of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e), a slight increase of 1.7% from 2023, when emissions were at 22,635 tCO₂e.

The company attributes the 2024 increase to a gradual return to business travel and operational activity. The trend shows clear progress. Emissions per employee have fallen by 57% since 2019. Now, each employee is responsible for only 6 tCO₂e.

Palantir Gross Emissions by Scope
Source: Palantir Report

Palantir’s carbon footprint is small compared to companies with physical supply chains or manufacturing. As a software company, it neither owns nor operates production facilities and primarily leases office spaces.

The software giant’s direct (Scope 1 and 2) emissions remain low and are mostly tied to heating and electricity use in its offices. The company partners with utility providers and landlords. This helps them gather better data on energy use, which improves reporting accuracy.

Most of Palantir’s emissions are Scope 3. This includes business travel, employee commuting, cloud computing, and third-party services. Business travel, in particular, has been the largest contributor.

Palantir Scope 3 Emissions Contributors
Source: Palantir Report

To lessen this impact, Palantir urges employees to hold virtual meetings. They can join programs like United Airlines’ Eco-Skies Alliance. This program helps create sustainable aviation fuel.

Palantir Emissions Intensity Per Capita
Source: Palantir Report

Palantir has made notable progress in reducing emissions from its digital infrastructure. Between 2022 and 2023, the company’s cloud computing emissions fell by 32%. This decline was largely due to more energy-efficient data centers and software optimization.

The company is looking for partnerships with cloud providers. They focus on renewable energy and high energy-efficiency ratings.

To balance its residual emissions, Palantir purchases and retires verified carbon credits that support projects such as:

  • Landfill gas capture
  • Destruction of ozone-depleting substances 
  • Renewable energy development

These projects were chosen for their environmental credibility. They also match the company’s commitment to long-term sustainability.

In 2023, Palantir formalized its environmental efforts by publishing its first Environmental Policy. The same year, its UK operations released a Carbon Reduction Plan, committing to a 42% cut in emissions by 2029. These steps show a bigger plan to include climate goals in how we operate and share information with the public.

Building Green Tools: Palantir’s Climate-Focused AI Platforms

Palantir not only manages its own environmental impact but also helps other organizations reach their climate and net zero goals. It uses its strong AI and data platforms to do this. The company describes itself as having a “product-first” philosophy—one that gives customers the tools to build climate solutions at scale.

Palantir offers platforms like Foundry, Gotham, and the Artificial Intelligence Platform (AIP). These support many climate-related use cases. These include:

  • Building digital twins of infrastructure to simulate environmental risks
  • Enhancing grid resilience through predictive modeling
  • Planning electric vehicle infrastructure deployment
  • Tracking carbon emissions across supply chains and operations

One of Palantir’s flagship ESG tools is the Agora platform, launched in 2022. Agora enables energy and commodity firms to monitor supply chain emissions in real time.

At the 2023 Asia Pacific Petroleum Conference (APPEC), Palantir showed how Agora helps big partners like bp, Ecopetrol, and Trafigura. They use it to track, analyze, and cut carbon emissions from oil and gas operations.

In July 2024, Palantir teamed up with Tree Energy Solutions (TES). This partnership aims to boost green hydrogen production. TES uses Palantir’s software to model its supply chain, which includes hydrogen production sites and transport logistics. This helps track emissions, optimize energy use, and scale low-carbon fuel projects more quickly.

Palantir also works on internal sustainability initiatives. For example, in its London office, the company partners with Fooditude to reduce plastic and food waste. This partnership has cut single-use water bottles by 80%. It also promotes eco-friendly packaging and food sourcing.

Palantir is growing its AI and data operations. The company is also working hard to make its software and infrastructure more energy efficient. This means creating lighter apps, reducing server strain by optimizing workloads, and choosing cloud providers that use renewable energy.

Palantir’s approach highlights how software companies can impact climate change. They do this not only by reducing their own emissions but also by offering digital tools. These tools help speed up decarbonization in various industries.

Low Footprint, High Ambition

Palantir’s low footprint reflects its business model. It leases offices rather than owning buildings and doesn’t operate factories or own data centers. Even its cloud usage—from AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud—is relatively clean, with a 32% year‑over‑year drop in cloud‑related emissions from 2022 to 2023. 

The company uses market-based accounting for Scope 2 and regularly audits its energy sources to improve accuracy. It invests in compute‑efficiency improvements for its AI platforms as well.

Palantir continues to reduce emissions in every area and offset what remains through verified credits and sustainable aviation fuel. It also submitted its emissions targets to the Science‑Based Targets Initiative in 2023 to gain external validation. 

Why ESG‑Minded Investors Are Paying Attention

For investors focused on AI and ESG—especially those preferring companies with strong sustainability records—Palantir offers a compelling case with these reasons:

  • It proves corporate carbon neutrality is doable even for tech firms with global operations.
  • It features transparent emissions reporting, including per‑employee metrics and absolute reductions.
  • It enables other companies to reduce their own carbon footprints through Palantir-powered analytics.

Palantir shows that software companies can aim for net zero without sacrificing innovation. After reducing emissions by up to 38% since 2019 and offsetting the rest, it remains carbon neutral through 2024. Meanwhile, its AI platforms serve as foundations for climate solutions—from decarbonizing industry to planning clean energy.

For ESG-conscious investors and industry professionals, Palantir offers proof that advanced AI can support a sustainable future—not just improve the bottom line. Its path shows how tech giants can help the planet while building value, one code line at a time.

BigBear.ai (BBAI Stock): How This AI Company Can Support Sustainability

Investors are closely watching for companies that help track and manage climate data as the world focuses more on sustainability. One of the major names with potential in this space is BigBear.ai (NYSE:BBAI). 

BigBear.ai is not just a software company. It plays a behind-the-scenes role in supporting governments, firms, and ESG managers by making data easier to understand, analyze, and act on. The company has also set its own climate goals, including a net-zero target by 2030.

The company’s financials are impressive. Revenue grew to $43.8 million in Q4 2024, up 8% year-over-year. It ended the quarter with a $437 million backlog, more than double the $168 million seen in Q3 2023. Its net debt-to-cash ratio improved from 4.0x to 1.2x by the end of 2024. Cash reserves totaled $107.6 million as of Q1 2025.

Let’s take a closer look at how BigBear.ai can help support the ESG and climate analytics space, and why it may interest investors focused on sustainability and AI.

Helping Organizations Make Sense of ESG Data

ESG data is one of the fastest-growing areas in finance and corporate reporting. But many organizations struggle to collect, process, and make decisions from this data because it comes from so many sources—satellite imagery, IoT sensors, supply chains, and internal reports.

BigBear.ai can help solve this problem. Its AI tools are designed to handle large and complex datasets. For example, a company trying to measure its carbon footprint across global supply chains can use BigBear.ai’s platform to track emissions in real time. It brings together structured and unstructured data—like spreadsheets, reports, and live feeds—and turns it into useful insights.

The company’s software detects patterns and highlights risks, helping ESG teams identify where emissions are high or where human rights concerns might be emerging. By turning raw data into visual dashboards and clear reports, BigBear.ai supports better decision-making in both the private and public sectors.

Supporting Climate and Environmental Data Analysis 

BigBear.ai’s tools help agencies and organizations manage large datasets to improve operational efficiency and decision intelligence. While not specifically focused on climate modeling, its AI tools have the potential to enhance analysis of complex environmental datasets and improve understanding of various operational scenarios.

BigBear.ai modeling solution

BigBear.ai’s technology is being deployed through several significant U.S. government contracts. Under a sole-source, five-year contract valued at approximately $165 million, the company is helping the U.S. Army modernize 15 legacy systems through the Global Force Information Management – Objective Environment (GFIM-OE) project.

Another contract, valued at $13.2 million, supports the Joint Staff Directorate by enabling AI-powered decision-making capabilities that can be applied to a range of operational scenarios, including disaster response and environmental considerations.

BigBear.ai was also named a subcontractor on a $2.4 billion Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) contract aimed at modernizing national IT infrastructure. Its VeriScan™ biometric tools are currently deployed at 14 gates at Denver International Airport and are in use at Heathrow Airport.

These deployments enhance operational efficiency and security in airport environments. These improvements can indirectly support ESG goals by streamlining operations, improving passenger processing, and supporting the airport’s emission reduction goals.

Government and Defense Roots Strengthen Its Tech

BigBear.ai didn’t start as an ESG or climate tech company. It has deep roots in defense and national security, formed from a merger of multiple analytics firms. Its early work with U.S. intelligence agencies gave it experience handling secure, high-stakes data environments.

That background now helps it to potentially offer reliable and secure platforms for ESG and environmental analytics. As more governments apply AI to climate goals, BigBear.ai’s existing relationships in the public sector give it a competitive edge.

In December 2024, the company was awarded a 10-year GSA OASIS+ IDIQ contract covering five areas—including research, logistics, and intelligence—with applications ranging from environmental forecasting to resilient infrastructure planning. It also won a Department of Defense contract for its Virtual Anticipation Network Environment (VANE), designed to improve geopolitical and environmental threat analysis.

The company’s international exposure is growing as well. In early 2025, BigBear.ai showcased its predictive analytics tools at the International Defense Conference (IDEX) in the UAE, signaling expanding global interest in its climate modeling solutions.

BigBear.ai has formed strategic partnerships to strengthen its capabilities. Here are some of the major ones.

  • Project ORION – AI-Powered Decision Support
    In 2024, BigBear.ai secured a $13.2 million U.S. government contract for its J-35 ORION platform. Originally built for military force management and decision support, but it can be used for environmental risk analysis as well.
  • Pangiam Acquisition (2024)
    BigBear.ai acquired Pangiam, a leader in biometric and edge-AI technology. Its tools are for biometric identity verification and secure access solutions. 
  • FAA Biometric Deployments – Denver & Heathrow
    BigBear.ai’s biometric tech is deployed at major airports, helping to reduce congestion and passenger dwell times. While aimed at improving security, the faster processing may also support the airport’s climate goals by lowering emissions at terminals.

The company also teamed up with Palantir to integrate its AI tools with Palantir’s Foundry platform, enabling even broader use in ESG monitoring and climate risk analytics. On top of these initiatives, BBAI is also working with its own environmental and climate goals. 

BigBear.ai Charts a Path to Net Zero with Measured GHG Reductions

While BigBear.ai can help others in reaching their ESG goals, it has also committed to its own. The company aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

The company’s 2022 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report establishes a transparent baseline for its emissions and outlines a science-based strategy for reduction.

2022 Emissions Baseline

In calendar year 2022, BigBear.ai measured its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions across all company-leased and controlled facilities. The company calculated its emissions in accordance with the GHG Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard, ensuring accuracy and comparability.

Total Scope 1 and 2 emissions amounted to approximately 1.628 metric tons of CO₂ equivalent. The primary sources were electricity used in commercial office spaces, employee business travel, and commuting.

A detailed breakdown shows that Scope 2 emissions (primarily from electricity consumption) accounted for 95% of the company’s total emissions. Meanwhile, Scope 1 emissions (mainly from fuel combustion and company-leased vehicles) made up the remaining 5%. Notably, BigBear.ai’s total energy consumption was already low, at just 0.1 GWh for the year.

BigBear.ai GHG emissions
Source: BigBear.ai report

Science-Based Reduction Targets

BigBear.ai is committed to further reducing its climate impact by setting annual reduction targets starting in 2023. The company’s strategy includes:

  • Eliminating certain real estate holdings to reduce Scope 2 emissions associated with office electricity use.

  • Phasing out all company-owned vehicles to eliminate Scope 1 emissions from transportation.

By focusing on these short- and mid-term actions, BigBear.ai aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. The company’s analytical approach and transparent reporting position it as a responsible player in the tech sector’s transition to a low-carbon future.

Why Investors Are Watching BBAI Stock

BigBear.ai can be seen as a company positioned at the intersection of AI and sustainability. It has the potential to offer its AI infrastructure to support green initiatives across sectors.

The company is still sensitive to quarterly volatility due to its reliance on large government contracts, and analysts have flagged a low Altman Z-score (around 0.14), indicating potential financial risk. However, for long-term investors—particularly those focused on ESG—BigBear.ai’s sustainability goals and data-driven approach may offer unique upside as the company evolves.

How Lundin Mining (LUN) Plans to Break into the World’s Top Ten Copper Producers?

Vancouver-based Lundin Mining Corporation aims to rank among the world’s top ten copper producers. On June 18, during its Capital Markets Day, the company shared its goal of producing over 500,000 tonnes of copper and 550,000 ounces of gold each year.

The plan includes major expansions at current sites and developing the Vicuña district, one of the richest untapped sources of copper, gold, and silver.

Jack Lundin, President and CEO, commented,

“Lundin Mining is entering an exciting new growth phase, underpinned by a clear path to increase copper production through low-cost brownfield expansions at Candelaria, Caserones, and Chapada. These projects are expected to deliver meaningful production gains over the next three to five years. Across all our operations, we see significant exploration upside, including promising opportunities at Eagle that could meaningfully extend the life of mine. In parallel, our Vicuña Project offers transformational long-term growth potential. Backed by a significantly strengthened balance sheet, reduced cash costs, robust free cash flow generation, and a best-in-class team, we are well-positioned to continue returning capital to shareholders while advancing  ambition of becoming a top-ten global copper producer.”

Lundin’s Copper Expansion Plans Backed by Operational Strength

Lundin Mining plans to boost copper production by 30,000 to 40,000 tonnes annually within three to five years. The company revealed that these increases will mainly come from brownfield expansions at existing operations.

2025 Production Guidance

Lundin copper
Source: Lundin Mining

Here are some of the strategies for achieving the targets:

Candelaria 

At Candelaria in Chile, Lundin is shifting its underground expansion to a more cost-effective model. This change will maintain nearly the same output while improving equipment use and speeding up underground development. Lundin expects to increase annual copper output by about 10%, adding around 14,000 tonnes.

Caserones

In Caserones, Chile, better leaching methods are increasing copper cathode production. By maximizing underused plant capacity and accessing more oxide material, Lundin aims to produce an extra 7,000 to 10,000 tonnes of copper each year.

Chapada

In Brazil, the Chapada mine is set for significant growth. A nearby brownfield project, the Saúva project, could contribute 15,000 to 20,000 tonnes of copper and 50,000 to 60,000 ounces of gold annually. This would boost copper output by 50% and double gold production at Chapada. A prefeasibility study is underway and should be ready by year-end.

Boulderdash Project: U.S. 

In the U.S., exploration continues at the Boulderdash project near the Eagle Mine. Lundin has an agreement with Talon Metals for a 70% stake if the project progresses. A successful discovery here could greatly extend the Eagle operation’s life.

Vicuña Project Could Transform Lundin’s Production Profile

Lundin holds a 50% stake in the Vicuña Project, which includes the Filo del Sol and Josemaria deposits. This area is now seen as one of the largest copper, gold, and silver resource regions worldwide.

An integrated development study is in progress, aiming to detail production outlooks and capital needs. Completion is expected in early 2026. If successful, this project could significantly enhance Lundin’s position among global mining leaders.

largest copper mines
Source: Lundin Mining

Copper and Gold Targets Within Reach

In the coming years, Lundin Mining forecasts steady production growth. Copper output is set to rise by up to 40,000 tonnes annually, while gold production could increase by as much as 70,000 ounces.

  • These efforts support the larger goal of achieving annual production levels of over 500,000 tonnes of copper and 550,000 ounces of gold.

Lundin’s Strong Financial Outlook Supports Growth

Another feather in its cap is: Lundin Mining continues to show strong financial performance. The company plans to return $220 million to shareholders each year through dividends and share buybacks.

Lundin copper
Source: Lundin Mining

For 2025, Lundin anticipates revenue around $3.7 billion, assuming a copper price of $4.40 per pound. Adjusted operating cash flow is expected to reach $1.3 billion, with adjusted free cash flow around $800 million.

From 2025 to 2029, Lundin expects to generate $8.1 billion in cumulative EBITDA, $6.5 billion in operating cash flow, and $4.9 billion in free cash flow.

Recent Copper Output and Cost Savings Boost Confidence

Furthermore, in April and May, Lundin produced 53,000 tonnes of copper. Year-to-date copper production through May is 129,800 tonnes. This kept the company on track to meet its annual targets.

Cash costs at the Chapada mine have decreased due to strong gold prices and a weaker local currency in Brazil. Consequently, Lundin has lowered its overall copper cash cost guidance from $2.05–$2.30 per pound to $1.95–$2.15 per pound.

Lundin Mining Powers Up with 100% Renewables in Candelaria 

Lundin Mining continued to make progress on reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2024. One of the key steps was at its Candelaria operation, where the company increased its renewable electricity supply from 80% to 100% by updating its power purchase agreement. With this change, all of Lundin Mining’s sites in Chile now run entirely on renewable electricity.

Scope 2 Emissions Drop Despite Overall Rise

  • Since 2019, the company’s market-based Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions have dropped by 62%—from 1,543,612 tonnes in 2019 to 953,051 tonnes in 2024.

However, total gross Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions were slightly higher in 2024 compared to the previous year. This increase was mainly due to including a full year of fuel-related emissions from the Caserones mine. Still, market-based Scope 2 emissions went down by 6%, helped by the shift to fully renewable electricity at Candelaria.

Lundin mining emissions
Source: Lundin Mining

Lundin Mining is on track for a significant increase in copper and gold production. With low-cost expansion and a promising mining district, the company is focused on meeting its growth objectives. Grounded in solid financials and a commitment to shareholder returns, Lundin’s future relies on strong fundamentals and global opportunities.

Greening the Aviation: Lufthansa and Airbus Team Up to Cut Business Travel Emissions Using SAF

Lufthansa Group is taking a big step to cut emissions in business travel. It has partnered with Airbus to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for all domestic flights of Airbus employees in Germany. This collaboration, which started on June 1, is key to Lufthansa’s climate neutrality goals.

The press release highlights that this partnership uses Lufthansa’s “Sustainable Corporate Value Fare.” This fare helps companies like Airbus offset CO₂ emissions by using SAF in the airline’s fuel operations.

Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer of Lufthansa Group, said,

“Together with our customers and strong partners from the industry, we strive towards greater sustainability. I am particularly pleased and thankful that our long-standing partner Airbus has opted for a corporate fare with SAF, demonstrating its leading role also in the field of sustainability. For many companies and its employees, sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor in travel decisions. As a leading airline group, we are the partner of choice for companies in achieving their goals with tailor-made solutions.”

How It Works: A Smarter Way to Fly Greener

SAF isn’t used directly in individual flights. Instead, it blends with fossil kerosene before reaching airports. As a “drop-in” fuel, SAF fits easily into existing aircraft and fuel systems. Once purchased, Lufthansa ensures that the equivalent SAF related to the customer’s carbon footprint is used within six months.

This method cuts the emissions impact of flying, even if SAF isn’t used on one flight. Over its lifecycle, SAF made from biogenic waste reduces CO₂ emissions by about 80% compared to traditional jet fuel.

Airbus Walks the Talk: Making Employee Travel Sustainable

By adopting the Sustainable Corporate Value Fare, Airbus is making employee travel within Germany more climate-friendly. This reflects a growing trend where more companies choose climate responsibility in travel.

Raphael Duflos, Vice President Corporate Services Procurement at Airbus, also noted,

“We have been working in close cooperation with Lufthansa Group since early 2024 to customize their ‘Sustainable Corporate Value Fare’ to meet the specific needs of Airbus travelers. They have helped us to create a meaningful offer incorporating Sustainable Aviation Fuels, starting in the German domestic market. We are confident that such ‘Sustainable Corporate Value Fare’ is going to be successful across the Business Travel ecosystem.”

For Lufthansa, this shows that its climate-focused travel products attract business customers.

Supports SAF to Cut Emissions and Drive Industry Growth

Airbus is using SAF as a key solution to reduce its aviation emissions. It is promoting SAF not just through internal use, but also by forming partnerships and making targeted investments.

                                                    Airbus Sustainability

Airbus sustainability
Source: Airbus

The aviation giant has been using SAF for nearly a decade and aims to cover at least 30% of its internal fuel use with SAF by 2030. This includes fuel for internal transport and employee business travel. Notably, all current Airbus aircraft can fly on up to 50% SAF.

  • By 2030, the goal is for all aircraft and helicopters to be ready for 100% SAF. New single-aisle models are already being designed with this goal in mind.

Since 2024, Airbus has purchased SAF options from Air France-KLM for employee flights between Paris and cities like Hamburg, Madrid, Marseille, Munich, and Toulouse.

Pilot Projects with Airlines

To help scale SAF use, the company launched two pilot projects last year. One with easyJet funded 106 tonnes of SAF for flights between Toulouse and Bristol using a 30% SAF blend. The trial showed how airlines and corporate partners can share SAF costs and build demand.

Another trial with Wizz Air included over 50 flights using blended SAF, with Airbus providing technical support.

Long-Term Partnerships 

Airbus has also partnered with TotalEnergies, which has supplied SAF for aircraft deliveries in Toulouse since 2016. By 2024, TotalEnergies met over half of Airbus’s SAF needs in Europe. They are also working together on research to enable 100% SAF use.

In recent years, Airbus signed agreements with Neste and OMV to expand access to SAF, encourage new demand, and support new production sites. It also invested in LanzaJet, a leading SAF producer, to help speed up the transition across the industry.

Lufthansa’s Climate Targets: Big Ambitions, Concrete Steps

The airline has clear climate goals. It plans to cut net CO₂ emissions from flights by half by 2030, compared to 2019 levels. It also aims for net-zero by 2050 and carbon neutrality in its home market by 2030.

SAF Use Grows Across Lufthansa’s Network

  • In 2024, Lufthansa cut 71,952 tonnes of fossil CO₂ by using SAF.

The sustainability report shows that the fuel was sourced through co-processing, where biogenic feedstock is refined alongside fossil crude oil. This method helps scale SAF efficiently while maintaining high quality.

Corporate clients can access SAF in two main ways:

  • Sustainable Corporate Value Fare: Business travelers can offset up to 30% of their CO₂ emissions through SAF.

  • SAF Bulk Deals: Companies can invest in larger SAF volumes to maximize their climate impact.

LUFTHANSA fuel
Source: Lufthansa

Expanding Green Fares for Leisure and Business Travelers

Lufthansa’s Green Fares product expanded in December 2024 to include intercontinental routes. On these flights, 10% of emissions are offset using SAF, while 90% through certified climate projects. For continental routes, the mix is even more ambitious: 20% SAF and 80% offsets.

The response has been modest but is growing. In 2024, about 4% of customers chose Green Fares on continental routes and 1.5% on long-haul flights.

  • These fares led to a total reduction or offset of 143,000 tonnes of fossil CO₂, with 28,000 tonnes saved directly through SAF.

A Multi-Faced Approach to Sustainability

Lufthansa’s climate strategy goes beyond SAF. It combines technology upgrades, operational efficiency, and better ground logistics:

1. Fleet Modernization: The Group has updated its fleet with new aircraft like the Airbus A320neo, A321neo, A350-900, and Boeing 787-9. These planes have new engines and materials that lower emissions and noise.

  • In 2024, Lufthansa added 18 new aircraft and retired four older models.
  • By 2025, 30 more new aircraft are expected.
  • The modernization plan covers around 240 aircraft. 99.6% of the fleet meets ICAO’s Chapter 4 noise standards.

2. Flight Operation Efficiency: Through smarter routing and digital tools, Lufthansa cut 37,000 tonnes of CO₂ in 2024. Innovations like AeroSHARK surface technology saved 12,000 tonnes of kerosene—enough for 142 roundtrips between Munich and New York with an Airbus A350-900.

3. Alternative Transport to Hubs: Lufthansa has reduced short-haul flights by offering over 750 daily connections via rail or bus. In 2024, over 1.1 million passengers chose these low-emission options, cutting unnecessary air traffic.

4. Offsetting Where Necessary: Besides SAF and fuel savings, Lufthansa and its customers actively offset emissions. In 2024, they offset 606,000 tonnes of CO₂ using high-quality climate projects—531,000 tonnes by customers and 75,000 tonnes from Lufthansa’s travel.

Lufthansa emissions

Sustainable Travel Becomes Mainstream

The Airbus-Lufthansa agreement signals a shift in aviation’s approach to travel. With scalable SAF programs, new aircraft, and changing passenger expectations, Lufthansa is positioning itself as a sustainability leader.

Real change needs collective effort. For aviation to meet climate goals, it requires increased SAF production and broader adoption by travelers.

Lufthansa and Airbus show that business travel can be planet-friendly. They prove that sustainability can be integrated into flying without sacrificing convenience.

Nvidia Invests in Bill Gates’ TerraPower, Which Closes $650M for Its Natrium Reactor

TerraPower, the nuclear energy company founded by Bill Gates, has secured a major $650 million investment to advance its Natrium reactor. This funding round included support from Nvidia’s NVentures, Bill Gates, and HD Hyundai. It brings TerraPower’s private financing to over $1.4 billion.

With $2 billion in federal support from the U.S. Department of Energy, the company now has more than $3.4 billion to speed up the design and building of its first commercial Natrium reactor.

The plant is being built in Kemmerer, Wyoming, at the site of a retiring coal plant. The goal is to have it operational by 2030, with construction that started in 2024. TerraPower has submitted its formal permit application to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

This is an important step in the U.S. nuclear approval process. This project is a top example of small modular reactor (SMR) use in the country. It may also serve as a model for future clean energy growth.

Tech Titans Join Nuclear Push for Low‑Carbon, 24/7 Power

Tech companies are turning to nuclear power as data centers and AI technologies using a lot of energy now. Nuclear power offers a clean and stable solution. Unlike solar and wind, which are intermittent, nuclear energy provides consistent electricity around the clock. This makes it ideal for powering servers, cooling systems, and other infrastructure that must run 24/7.

Nvidia’s investment in TerraPower signals a growing interest from the tech sector in long-term energy solutions. AI applications, such as language models and image generators, drive high demand for computing power. This power relies on a steady supply of electricity.

According to estimates, a single AI training run can consume as much power as 100 U.S. homes use in a year. That figure is expected to rise as AI becomes more advanced and widespread. The chart below shows the range of power estimated for U.S. data centers by 2030. 

power demand for US data centers forecast
Source: Carbon Direct

TerraPower has also partnered with Sabey Data Centers to explore integrating Natrium reactors directly with new data center builds. The goal is to place advanced nuclear reactors near digital infrastructure. This will provide secure, carbon-free power where it’s needed most. This could help stabilize grids while also reducing emissions from the rapidly growing tech sector.

Other major technology firms like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google are also investigating nuclear energy options. Many companies have net-zero goals due in the next decade. They are starting to see that renewables alone might not be enough.

Advanced nuclear reactors, such as Natrium, provide a flexible option. They complement solar and wind energy, which helps balance the grid and meet peak energy demands.

Natrium’s Secret Sauce: Salt, Safety, and Smarts

The Natrium design features a 345-megawatt sodium-cooled fast reactor. Unlike traditional reactors that use water as a coolant, Natrium uses liquid sodium, which allows the reactor to operate at lower pressures and higher temperatures. This improves efficiency and simplifies construction while enhancing safety.

What makes Natrium especially innovative is its 1-gigawatt-hour thermal energy storage system. This system stores excess heat in molten salt, which can then be released on demand to generate up to 500 megawatts of electricity for several hours. Such flexibility allows the plant to increase output during peak demand. It can also reduce production when renewable sources generate enough power.

Apart from being safer and more adaptable, Natrium is also cleaner than older reactors. It produces less long-lived radioactive waste and is designed to be easier to build and replicate. TerraPower expects future reactors to be constructed in about 36 months, significantly faster than traditional nuclear projects.

Supply‑Chain Partnerships and Global Scale‑Up

To bring Natrium to market quickly and at scale, TerraPower is forming global partnerships. The company is working with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries to manufacture reactor components and vessel systems. It has also teamed up with Spain’s ENSA and South Korea’s Doosan for parts fabrication and engineering services.

TerraPower is also eyeing international markets. It has submitted its Natrium design to the UK’s Generic Design Assessment and is in early discussions with regulators in Japan and South Korea.

As more countries set net-zero goals and look to retire fossil fuel plants, interest in advanced nuclear is growing. TerraPower’s flexible, scalable model could meet that demand in both developed and emerging economies.

A New Nuclear Renaissance for Energy‑Hungry AI and the Grid

We are entering a new phase of global energy transition, one in which AI and data services will become as central to society as manufacturing and agriculture. With that shift comes a steep rise in electricity demand.

Data centers, AI training clusters, and cloud platforms are projected to consume up to 8% of global electricity by 2030—double what they consume today.

EPRI U.S. Data Center Load Projections

US data centers power use under 4 scenarios EPRI analysis
Source: EPRI

In response, private investors and governments are turning to small modular reactors as a solution. These reactors can be placed near industrial centers or in remote spots. They produce steady electricity while using little land and also fit well with the current infrastructure.

SMRs also complement wind and solar by filling in gaps when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing. Learn more about this reactor technology in this comprehensive guide

TerraPower’s Natrium is one of several SMR designs moving forward globally, but it is currently among the best-funded. Including the recent Nvidia-led round, SMR developers worldwide have raised over $3.5 billion in private capital since 2023.

nuclear energy investment outlook by type 2050

That wave of investment shows a change in how industries and countries see nuclear energy. It’s not just a backup option anymore. Instead, it’s a key solution for decarbonizing power systems. Experts believe that advanced reactors could help meet dual challenges: providing zero-emission baseload energy and supporting the digital economy’s rising demand.

If TerraPower’s Wyoming project succeeds, it may lead to a new generation of nuclear plants that are smaller, safer, and easier to build than their predecessors. This trend is strengthened by the recent nuclear energy deal signed by Oklo with the U.S. Air Force. The DoD picked Oklo to provide clean power to its Eielson Base in Alaska.

Nuclear 2.0: Why TerraPower Could Lead the Charge

TerraPower’s Natrium reactor represents a bold and practical approach to clean energy. Backed by private tech investors like Nvidia and federal agencies, the company is creating a new nuclear power model. This model is safe, adaptable, and meets today’s energy needs.

If the company can deliver on its promise, Natrium may become a blueprint for the future of nuclear power: compact, clean, and ready for the 21st century.

Amazon’s Zoox Ramps Up Robotaxi Race — Can It Catch Waymo and Challenge Tesla?

Amazon just revealed its robotaxi plans! The retail giant is charging into the self-driving space through Zoox, its autonomous vehicle arm, aiming to produce up to 10,000 robotaxis annually at a massive new facility near Silicon Valley. This bold move is Amazon’s bid to challenge Waymo’s lead and join in reshaping future transportation.

The new production plant, located in Hayward, California, spans 220,000 square feet — about the size of three and a half football fields. Zoox says this factory is the first of its kind in the U.S., built solely for the serial production of purpose-designed robotaxis.

Before diving into Zoox’s big plans, let’s take a quick look at what robotaxis are all about.

What Exactly Is a Robotaxi?

Robotaxis are fully autonomous ride-hailing vehicles powered by advanced artificial intelligence. Using a mix of LiDAR, cameras, and radar sensors, they can navigate city streets without a human driver. Most are classified as Level 4 autonomous, meaning they can handle all driving tasks within set conditions.

Since Waymo first launched driverless rides in Phoenix in 2020, the concept has shifted from a futuristic experiment to a real-world mobility solution. Now, falling hardware costs and better AI performance are making robotaxis more affordable. In fact, Goldman Sachs estimates the cost per robotaxi could soon drop below $50,000.

autonomous vehicle robotaxi

Zoox Eyes Vegas Launch in 2025

Amazon acquired Zoox in 2020 for $1.2 billion, and now the company is preparing to launch its first commercial service in Las Vegas later this year. San Francisco is next, followed by additional cities like Austin and Miami in the coming years.

While Waymo has already logged more than 10 million paid robotaxi rides in cities like Phoenix, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Austin, Amazon’s Zoox is still playing catch-up. Tesla, on the other hand, is betting on a future where its EVs can self-drive using its own Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, though it has yet to officially roll out a robotaxi fleet.

Here’s what it looks like.

amazon robotaxi zoox
Source: Zoox

Inside Zoox’s High-Tech Production Factory: Flexible and Modular

The Hayward facility will handle all aspects of Zoox’s robotaxi production, from engineering and software integration to final assembly and quality testing. It is just 17 miles from Tesla’s nearby plant and sits close to Zoox’s Foster City headquarters, which promotes better teamwork between teams.

The facility is flexible by design. As robotaxi technology evolves, the plant can easily adjust to build newer models or add new features. As said before, at full capacity, the factory will be able to churn out over 10,000 robotaxis each year, scaling up as demand grows.

Secondly, Zoox follows a modular production model. From design to deployment, the company manages every part of the process. That means faster development, more quality control, and the ability to quickly scale production if needed.

Human Touch Still Matters

Even in a factory building autonomous vehicles, people play a vital role. Zoox uses robots for precision tasks like adhesive application and moving vehicles along the line. But much of the work, including assembly, is still done manually by skilled workers.

The facility is expected to bring hundreds of new jobs to the Bay Area. Zoox’s current team will help train newcomers as the company expands its operations. The company plans to hire more operators, logistics teams, and assembly experts as its services roll out to more cities.

Zoox Puts Sustainability in the Driver’s Seat

The new plant was designed with sustainability in mind. Zoox skips energy-hungry processes like welding and painting, reducing its overall power use. The company also avoids heavy in-house manufacturing by working with suppliers to preassemble key components, cutting emissions and waste.

To reduce its environmental footprint, Zoox has equipped its facility with low-emission, quiet logistics systems that minimize both air and noise pollution. This effort reflects the company’s broader commitment to sustainable manufacturing and cleaner urban transportation.

Robotaxi Market: Forecast, Trends, and Sustainability

According to a report by Markets and Markets, the global robotaxi market could grow from $0.4 billion in 2023 to $45.7 billion by 2030, at a rate of almost 92%. This shows Amazon’s robotaxi endeavors are on the right track.

If trends keep going, robotaxis might soon be profitable on a large scale. This is key for drawing in long-term investors and speeding up global use.

robotaxi
Source: marketsandmarkets

Furthermore, most people today want safer, easier, and stress-free ways to get around, and that’s driving the rise of robotaxis. Instead of dealing with the hassle of driving, they’re turning to autonomous rides for convenience. Robotaxis also cost less than traditional taxis or owning a private car, making them a more affordable option.

At the same time, trends like ride-sharing and Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) are making robotaxis even more appealing. Furthermore, these vehicles also support sustainability goals, ease traffic in crowded cities, and improve road safety by removing human error from the equation.

Moreover, strong government backing, new partnerships, and growing public trust in autonomous tech are helping this market gain momentum. As a result, the robotaxi sector is quickly moving from concept to reality.

So, Amazon’s Zoox is now officially in the robotaxi game. With a world-first production facility, a clear launch roadmap, and a focus on smart, sustainable growth, it’s gearing up to rival both Waymo’s early lead and Tesla’s ambitious promises. Thus, the race to dominate the streets with driverless rides has started shifting gears.

European Central Bank (ECB) Tilts Green: 38% Cut in Portfolio Emissions, Adds Nature Risk to Climate Disclosures

The European Central Bank (ECB) has released its third climate-related financial disclosure, marking steady progress toward its sustainability goals. This year’s report shows that carbon emissions from the ECB’s portfolios keep declining. It also adds a new feature: a metric that measures exposure to sectors linked to nature degradation.

The update shows how the ECB is incorporating climate and nature risks into its financial and monetary policy. This aligns with EU climate neutrality goals and the Paris Agreement.

Corporate Bond Portfolio Sees 38% Drop in Carbon Intensity

The ECB’s €331 billion corporate bond portfolio has significantly reduced its carbon intensity over the past three years. Between 2021 and 2024, the weighted average carbon intensity (WACI) fell by 38%, dropping from 266 to 165 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per million euros invested. This substantial drop is a direct result of both external emission reductions by issuers and internal policy shifts by the ECB.

ECB carbon intensity
Source: ECB

What’s the Tilting Strategy?

One major driver of this shift was the ECB’s tilting strategy. By favoring corporate bond issuers with stronger climate credentials, the ECB was able to help decarbonize its portfolio.

  • According to the disclosure, the tilting framework alone contributed roughly 26% of the total WACI reduction from 2021 to 2024.

Although reinvestments slowed in mid-2023 and stopped altogether by the end of 2024, the benefits of tilting continued. Bonds purchased under this strategy in 2024 showed 76% lower Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions compared to purchases made before tilting was introduced.

Nature Loss Now on the Radar

The ECB has added a nature-related financial risk indicator to its annual report for the first time. This new metric shows how much the ECB’s corporate investments rely on natural ecosystems or harm them.

Early findings show that around 30% of the Eurosystem’s corporate bond holdings are in three high-risk sectors: utilities, food, and real estate. These sectors face the highest nature-related risks due to their resource use and impact on ecosystems.

The ECB’s funds and staff pension portfolio have different exposure levels. The largest share is 40% in equity exchange-traded funds (ETFs) linked to nature-sensitive industries. This is an initial estimate. The bank views this nature metric as key for better risk assessments. It also aids in grasping the wider economic effects of biodiversity loss.

ECB’s 7% Annual Emission Cut: What Does It Target? 

The ECB wants to further lower its emissions, keeping its long-term goal intact. It targets a 7% annual cut in emissions intensity for corporate bonds in the Asset Purchase Programme (APP) and the Pandemic Emergency Purchase Programme (PEPP).

These targets align investments with the EU’s climate goals and the Paris Agreement. If the holdings deviate, the ECB’s Governing Council will consider corrective actions within the bank’s mandate.

Green Bond Holdings Surge to €6.4 Billion

The ECB is also increasing its exposure to green finance. The press release highlighted that in 2024, the share of green bonds in the ECB’s own funds portfolio rose to 28%, up from 20% in 2023.

  • This increase translates into over €6.4 billion directed toward green initiatives, and the central bank aims to boost this share to 32% in 2025.

Additionally, the ECB started investing in ETFs that follow EU Paris-aligned benchmarks. These investments reflect the bank’s growing commitment to financing the low-carbon transition and supporting climate-aligned assets.

Meanwhile, the staff pension fund continues to make climate progress. In 2024, the fund cut the carbon footprint of its corporate investments by 20%, keeping it on track to meet its interim climate targets.

ECB green bonds
Source: ECB

ECB’s Operational Emissions

While investment-related emissions dropped, the ECB’s own operational carbon footprint increased in 2023. According to the bank’s latest Environmental Statement, total Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions rose by 50.8% compared to 2022.

Scope 1 emissions—those from direct sources like heating—declined by 15.5%, and Scope 2 emissions from purchased energy fell by 3.9%. However, Scope 3 emissions, which include indirect sources such as business travel and purchased goods, surged by 61.4%. This increase reflects a post-pandemic rebound in travel and in-person events.

ECB emissions
Source: ECB

The bank set a short-term target to manage the emissions. For instance, in 2024, travel-related emissions had to stay under 60% of 2019 levels. In 2023, this figure reached 69%, signaling the need for stronger controls in operational emissions.

Data Gaps Pose Ongoing Challenge

Despite these advances, data quality remains a hurdle. The ECB pointed out that many companies still report incomplete or inconsistent emissions data, especially when it comes to Scope 3 emissions across value chains. This inconsistency makes it difficult to compare emissions across issuers and time periods.

Additionally, asset classes like covered bonds also suffer from limited emissions data, further complicating the ECB’s assessments. These gaps highlight the urgent need for reliable, standardized reporting rules across all financial sectors and jurisdictions.

The ECB stressed that better data and unified standards are key. These elements are vital for managing risks accurately and taking effective climate action.

Expanding the Climate Agenda: Nature, Physical Risks, and Transition

Building on its 2022 climate agenda, the bank has decided to expand its focus through 2025. It will focus on three major areas:

  • The economic implications of the green transition
  • The physical impacts of climate change, such as floods and heat waves
  • The financial risks posed by nature loss and ecosystem degradation

The ECB and all Eurosystem national central banks have published climate-related financial disclosures every year since 2023. These disclosures follow a unified set of principles based on the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

Over time, these annual reports show how the ECB reduces its environmental impact. They also highlight a change in how central banks view climate and nature risks. These are not just environmental issues anymore; they are now seen as key financial risks.

The ECB’s 2025 disclosure makes it clear: central banking is going green, and nature matters. Emissions are dropping, green bonds are increasing, and biodiversity is now a focus. However, data challenges persist, and operational emissions are on the rise. Still, with clear targets and transparent disclosures, the ECB is pushing toward a climate-safe financial future.

The Top 6 AI-Powered Companies and How They Transform Climate, Nature, and Carbon Solutions

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a central tool in the fight against climate change. From tracking deforestation to verifying carbon credits and forecasting climate risks, AI is being used to reshape how we understand and respond to environmental problems. This article showcases the top six companies using AI for climate, carbon, and nature-based solutions.

Ranging from nimble startups to publicly traded innovators, these companies are using machine learning, geospatial data, and advanced AI analytics to bring speed, transparency, and accountability to environmental and climate action. Before getting to know each one of them, let’s unravel the reasons why AI is crucial in tackling climate issues.

Why AI Matters in the Fight Against Climate Change

The global climate crisis is a problem of speed, scale, and complexity. Greenhouse gas emissions have to be reduced rapidly, and ecosystems need to be restored effectively. But traditional tools can’t keep up with the pace or size of the problem. This is where AI comes in to help. 

AI technology helps collect and process large amounts of data. It also automates repetitive tasks and provides real-time insights worldwide.

According to a 2023 report by BCG and BCG Gamma, AI has the potential to help reduce 5% to 10% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030—equivalent to 2.6 to 5.3 gigatons of CO₂e per year.

AI for climate control reduce emissions 2030

This reduction could come from more efficient energy use, smarter agriculture, cleaner transportation systems, and better industrial processes. For example:

  • AI-driven building energy management systems can lower electricity usage by 10% to 20% by adjusting heating, cooling, and lighting based on occupancy and usage patterns.
  • In agriculture, precision farming powered by AI can cut emissions from fertilizer use by up to 20%, while boosting yields and reducing water waste.
  • AI can also improve the accuracy of carbon credit verification and forest monitoring, reducing fraud and ensuring nature-based solutions deliver real climate benefits.
  • Logistics and transportation optimization through AI can reduce fleet emissions by up to 15%, according to McKinsey.

Key Areas Where AI Is Making a Difference:

Carbon Accounting. Companies can use AI to track emissions and, thus, climate actions more accurately. It helps them monitor supply chains, facilities, and transport networks. According to PwC, AI-enhanced carbon accounting can significantly improve emissions tracking accuracy, helping firms meet ESG reporting standards and avoid greenwashing.

Project Verification. AI, satellite imagery, and drone data can verify carbon offset projects, like reforestation. This ensures they provide the promised environmental benefits. For example, AI-powered verification platforms can reduce carbon offset fraud, according to research from Microsoft’s AI for Earth program.

Climate Forecasting. AI models can simulate extreme weather events, droughts, and climate risks decades into the future. A study by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts found that AI-based models like Google’s GraphCast outperform traditional forecasts by up to 90% of tested metrics.

Deforestation Monitoring. Machine learning tools can spot early signs of illegal logging and land degradation across vast landscapes. Global Forest Watch reports that AI-aided systems can detect deforestation in near real-time, reducing response times from weeks to just hours.

AI also supports nature-based solutions by automating tasks like species recognition, soil monitoring, and forest growth modeling. These innovations are essential in building trust and scalability in carbon markets.

In short, AI isn’t just speeding up climate solutions—it’s making them smarter, more credible, and more scalable. And the companies at the forefront of this AI–climate fusion are shaping the next era of environmental action. Let’s take a closer look at six companies leading this AI revolution.

Veritree – Restoring Nature with Digital Precision

Veritree is a Canadian startup that combines AI, geospatial technology, and blockchain to verify ecosystem restoration projects. Their goal is to make reforestation more transparent, measurable, and accountable.

Veritree works in Kenya, Indonesia, and Madagascar. It partners with planting groups and tracks each tree planted on a digital dashboard. They verify project performance through ground data, satellite imagery, and automated analytics.

The company makes sure the forests planted are thriving. They focus on healthy biodiversity and long-term carbon absorption. Here’s how the company’s AI-driven technology works:

Veritree has helped plant over 100 million trees so far. They partner with more than 300 companies, including the outdoor brand tentree. Veritree uses AI to spot growth trends and threats, such as pests or drought. This helps secure long-term ecological success. Here is the company’s impact in numbers:

vertiree impact in numbers

In May 2025, Veritree closed a $6.5 million Series A round, led by Pender Ventures, with participation from Garage Capital, Northside Ventures, and Diagram Ventures. This round coincided with a major milestone (over 100 million trees pledged) and supports their goal of planting 1 billion trees by 2030.

Veritree’s Key Initiatives:

  • The 10 Million Tree Challenge. A corporate reforestation initiative where companies pledge to plant trees to offset emissions.
  • Verified Impact Platform. Uses satellite data, geospatial analytics, and AI to monitor planted forests over time, ensuring survival rates and ecological success.
  • Partnership with tentree. Every product purchased funds tree planting via Veritree, backed by real-time dashboards showing impact metrics.
  • Mangrove Restoration in Kenya & Indonesia. AI tracks coastal resilience benefits, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration metrics.

Treefera – AI Transparency in Supply Chains and Carbon Projects

UK-based Treefera is a fast-growing company that uses satellite imagery and AI to map the “first mile” of agricultural and forestry supply chains. This is the part of the supply chain where environmental and social risks are often highest but least visible.

Treefera’s platform monitors where raw materials come from, such as coffee, palm oil, and cocoa. It makes sure they aren’t tied to deforestation or land degradation. It also helps carbon project developers and buyers check the credibility of land-based offset projects.

With its advanced mapping and verification tools, Treefera supports sustainability compliance and supply chain de-risking. So far, here are the company’s achievements and results in figures:

trefeera results
Source: Treefera

Treefera has had a burst of capital growth. In April 2024, the firm raised $12 million in Series A funding from Albion VC. In June 2025, they secured a $30 million Series B round. Notion Capital led the funding, with help from Albion VC, Endeit Capital, Triple Point, and Twin Path Ventures. This funding is to scale up its services and expand into emerging markets in Africa and Latin America. 

More and more ESG-conscious companies use Treefera’s AI tools for climate or nature-based solutions. They want verified carbon claims and ethical sourcing data. Here are the company’s major initiatives:

  • Carbon Credit Verification for Forest Projects. Provides AI-powered evidence on forest cover changes, biomass, and carbon absorption for voluntary carbon market (VCM) buyers.
  • Partnership with Satelligence and Google Earth Engine. Integrates with Earth data sources to streamline project due diligence for investors.
  • Agrifood Traceability Solutions. Used by global food firms to verify sustainable sourcing from cocoa, palm oil, and coffee farms.
  • Geospatial ESG Monitoring. Detects deforestation and biodiversity loss risks in carbon projects before they happen, reducing greenwashing.

C3.ai – Enterprise-Grade AI for Emissions and Energy

C3.ai is a U.S.-based enterprise software company listed on the NYSE (ticker: AI). Founded in 2009 with a focus on carbon and energy analytics, C3.ai went public via IPO in December 2020. Its founder, Tom Siebel, originally envisioned the firm as a tool to “measure, mitigate, and monetize” corporate carbon footprints. 

Post-IPO, the company has continued growing through strategic AI solutions for sustainability. It offers AI-powered platforms to companies in energy, defense, manufacturing, and finance. These tools focus on sustainability and managing emissions.

For climate-focused users, C3.ai offers carbon accounting and optimization tools that automate the tracking of Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. These solutions connect with enterprise systems and supply chain platforms. They give a complete view of emission sources. 

Moreover, the company helps firms see how different decarbonization plans might play out, with predictive modeling. Below are the company’s customers.

C3.ai customers
Source: C3.ai

C3.ai has worked with major organizations such as Shell, Engie, and the U.S. Department of Energy. While it serves a wide range of industries, its software is gaining popularity among large enterprises facing pressure to meet net-zero targets and report ESG data transparently. Know more about the company’s AI technology here.

C3.ai’s Major Projects and Efforts:

  • C3 AI ESG Application. Automates ESG reporting, emissions tracking (Scopes 1–3), and decarbonization recommendations using AI.
  • Partnership with Shell and Baker Hughes. Used to optimize energy infrastructure and reduce methane leaks through predictive AI.
  • C3.ai Energy Management Suite. Helps utilities and oil majors lower carbon intensity while boosting operational efficiency.
  • AI Model Library for Carbon Emissions. Offers prebuilt models that track emissions across supply chains and suggest reduction pathways.

Planet Labs – Satellite Data for Nature and Carbon Intelligence

Planet Labs operates the largest fleet of Earth-imaging satellites and captures daily images of the entire planet. Founded in 2010 and publicly listed on the NYSE (ticker: PL), Planet is transforming how we monitor environmental changes.

Planet Labs has steadily built a robust financial foundation to support its growing fleet of Earth observation satellites. In 2018, Planet secured a $168 million Series D round to scale its hardware and integrate the Terra Bella satellite business, previously acquired from Google. 

By 2021, Planet had closed another $95 million Series C round, pushing its total venture capital raised to over $160 million. These investments boosted progress in AI-powered geospatial intelligence. Their AI tech helps in climate, carbon, and environmental monitoring of various companies.

Planet uses machine learning and geospatial analytics to turn raw images into insights. These insights can spot changes in forest cover, illegal deforestation, and land-use patterns.

In the context of carbon credits and nature-based solutions, this is crucial. The image below shows an example of the company’s output using LiDAR, and they can provide a lot more services for forest carbon and other areas

Planet Labs result

Recently, Planet has focused on Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) tools for the carbon market. It can estimate forest height, biomass density, and carbon absorption over time, offering transparency for offset buyers and project developers.

Governments, NGOs, and environmental asset managers already use their platform. As MRV rules for carbon projects get stricter, Planet’s AI-powered satellite tools will be vital.

Notable Initiatives:

  • Planetary Variables Product Suite. Tracks vegetation biomass, soil moisture, and canopy height for MRV in carbon markets.
  • Partnership with NASA, UN FAO & Microsoft. Provides critical deforestation and land-use data for nature-based climate projects.
  • Forest Carbon MRV Pilot with Verra. Helping carbon registries improve the accuracy of credit issuance using remote sensing.
  • Global Forest Watch Contributor. Powers near-real-time forest loss alerts used by NGOs and investors to flag risks to carbon projects.

Sylvera – Carbon Credit Ratings with AI Insight

Sylvera is a London-based climate tech company aiming to bring clarity and accountability to the voluntary carbon market. The company uses AI, satellite data, and its own methods to rate carbon offset projects around the globe.

Buyers of carbon credits often struggle to evaluate the effectiveness of a given project. Sylvera solves this problem by scoring projects on additionality, permanence, co-benefits, and data quality. Its analytics help corporations, investors, and even governments make informed carbon purchasing decisions, as explained in the video. 

By 2025, Sylvera tracks and rates thousands of carbon offset projects. These projects vary in type, including forest protection, soil carbon, and blue carbon initiatives. The company teamed up with big asset managers and financial platforms. They are adding their ratings to climate investment portfolios.

Sylvera has strong support from top investors like Index Ventures and Insight Partners. It also leads the push to standardize how carbon credits are assessed. 

In January 2022, the company secured $32.6 million in Series A funding, co-led by Index Ventures and Insight Partners. The round raised its total funding to about $39.5 million. This money will help grow its AI-driven carbon credit ratings and tools that boost credibility.

Sylvera’s Key Projects and Initiatives:

  • Carbon Credit Ratings Platform. Used by major buyers like Salesforce, Bain, and Delta Airlines to assess credit integrity before purchase.
  • Data Partnership with MSCI. Integrates Sylvera’s ratings into ESG investing platforms to align with sustainable finance standards.
  • AI-Driven “Quality Score” for Offsets. Evaluates permanence, leakage, additionality, and co-benefits of forest and tech-based projects.
  • Improving VCM Integrity Initiative. Actively involved in global standards discussions (ICVCM, VCMI) to build trust in offsets.

SEE MORE: Sylvera and BlueLayer Launch World’s First Live Carbon Data to Unlock $2B Investment

Pachama – Machine Learning for Forest Carbon Verification

Founded in California, Pachama uses satellite imagery, LiDAR, and machine learning to verify carbon capture in forest-based projects. They aim to improve the quality of nature-based carbon credits. This is especially true for reforestation and forest conservation.

Pachama closed its Series B in May 2022, raising $55 million to bring total funding to around $79 million. In December 2023, the company added $9 million to its Series B funding. This raised the total growth-stage funding to around $88 million. Key investors included Lowercarbon Capital, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund, and T.Capital. 

Pachama monitors forest projects continuously. This helps companies see their carbon credit impact over time. Their AI models can spot forest degradation, tree death, and land-use changes quicker than old field audits.

The company works with top reforestation developers. They provide a marketplace for companies to buy verified, high-quality carbon credits. They aim to make all forest projects auditable, transparent, and trustworthy. These traits are essential for companies that want to invest in offsets to meet their net-zero goals.

With a strong reputation for data transparency and environmental integrity, Pachama is a key player in the next generation of digital carbon platforms. The company’s major initiatives include:

  • Verified Forest Carbon Marketplace. Features vetted carbon credits from high-integrity forest projects with transparent scoring.
  • Pachama Monitoring Platform. Uses AI to track canopy cover, deforestation, and biomass over time to validate carbon sequestration claims.
  • Partnership with Shopify, Microsoft, and Flexport. Trusted provider of forest carbon offsets for top-tier climate-conscious companies.
  • Pachama Originals. Launching its own AI-verified reforestation projects with rigorous environmental and community co-benefits. 

Smart Technology for a Smarter Climate Response

AI is emerging as a crucial ally in climate action. These tools are closing the gap between climate goals and real results. They help monitor forests, track emissions, verify carbon credits, and forecast climate risks.

The six companies featured here—Veritree, Treefera, C3.ai, Planet Labs, Sylvera, and Pachama—are proving that technology can accelerate and enhance nature-based and carbon-driven solutions. They show that with the right data and intelligent tools, we can restore ecosystems, build trust in carbon markets, and support a sustainable future.

As climate challenges grow more complex, expect AI companies to play an even bigger role in creating a planet that’s not only livable but thriving.