Applied Carbon Secures $21.5 Million in Series A Funding for Biochar Technology

Applied Carbon, a Houston-based startup formerly known as Climate Robotics, has announced the successful completion of a $21.5 million Series A funding round. The investment will facilitate the deployment of its biochar production technology across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana.

Biochar, a stable form of carbon produced by heating biomass in the absence of oxygen, is utilized for soil enrichment and carbon sequestration. Applied Carbon’s technology aims to address both soil regeneration and climate change by converting agricultural crop waste into biochar directly in the field. This process involves a high-tech trailer that collects crop residue, processes it through high-temperature pyrolysis, and then disperses the biochar onto the soil. This approach eliminates the need for transporting biomass or finished biochar and minimizes associated emissions and costs.

Jason Aramburu, Co-founder and CEO of Applied Carbon, emphasized the significance of the technology, stating that studies suggest the potential for biochar to significantly reduce atmospheric CO2 levels while benefiting farmers. The company’s rebranding to Applied Carbon reflects its operational focus and aligns with its mission to provide a commercially viable solution for large-scale agricultural waste management.

The funding round was led by TO VC and included contributions from Congruent Ventures, Grantham Foundation, Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund, and several other prominent investors. Joshua Phitoussi, Co-founder and Managing Partner at TO VC, highlighted the unique value proposition of biochar in carbon removal and soil health improvement.

In addition to the recent funding, Applied Carbon has been recognized in various industry competitions and programs, including a top 20 finalist position in XPRIZE’s Carbon Removal Competition and a semi-finalist status in the Department of Energy’s Carbon Dioxide Removal Purchase Pilot Prize program.

The company’s technology not only addresses climate challenges but also offers practical benefits for agriculture, including enhanced soil health and reduced need for fertilizers and lime. As Applied Carbon advances its biochar production capabilities, it aims to contribute to both environmental sustainability and agricultural efficiency.