In a bold move to advance the circular carbon economy, Saudi Arabia has launched the Carbon Capture and Utilization Challenge in partnership with UpLink. Unveiled during the United Nations High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, the initiative seeks innovative solutions to drive carbon reductions through sustainable systems transformation. The challenge underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to reaching net-zero emissions and leveraging carbon as a valuable resource, inviting startups worldwide to contribute their pioneering ideas.
1. Global Initiative
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Economy and Planning and Ministry of Energy, in collaboration with UpLink, have launched a global challenge to find innovative carbon capture and utilisation solutions.
2. Circular Carbon Economy
The challenge aims to accelerate the circular carbon economy by seeking technologies and applications that transform carbon into a valuable resource.
3. Focus on Innovation
Startups are encouraged to submit solutions that drive carbon reductions through advanced carbon capture technologies, novel utilisation applications, and industrial integration.
4. Support for Innovators
Winners will be recognised as top innovators, join the UpLink Innovation Ecosystem, and receive up to CHF 300,000 in cash awards, along with technical and business support.
5. Saudi Arabia’s Commitment
The initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 under the Circular Carbon Economy Framework, emphasising global cooperation on climate action.
6. Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated on scalability, commercial viability, technological readiness, and fundraising success, focusing on promoting a sustainable energy transition.