With CO₂ removal to net-zero

We cannot stop global warming without CO₂ removal technologies. Recoal has developed a simple and safe process to remove millions of tonnes of CO₂ from the atmosphere in the long term.

Why do we need CO₂ removal methods?

To mitigate the impacts of climate change and reduce the associated global risks, the Paris Climate Agreement set a target to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. To achieve this, greenhouse gas emissions must be significantly reduced, and the remaining emissions removed from the atmosphere. Specifically, net-zero emissions are to be achieved by 2050. According to current climate research (cdr.fyi, IPCC), in order to achieve net-zero by 2050, 10 gigatonnes of CO₂ must be removed from the atmosphere by 2050 in addition to drastic emission reductions. Therefore, in addition to reductions, net-zero also requires scalable and long-term CO₂ removal methods.

What does net-zero mean?

Net-zero means that in the long term, no more greenhouse gases may be released into the atmosphere than are absorbed by natural and technical reservoirs.

How does Recoal contribute?

The removal of CO₂ from the atmosphere and subsequent storage is possible using various methods, which are summarised under the term Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR).

The CDR process developed by Recoal uses waste biomass as a raw material for CO₂ removal and therefore falls under the Biomass Carbon Removal and Storage (BiCRS) approach. BiCRS approaches exclusively use biomass to bind carbon from the atmosphere and utilise natural processes.

What does CDR mean?

Carbon Dioxide Removal encompasses approaches and methods for removing CO₂ from the atmosphere and then storing it permanently in underground geological formations, biomass, oceanic reservoirs or long-lived products to offset residual emissions.

The process in three steps

Recoal’s process can be explained in three simple steps, whereby waste biomass is converted into a charcoal-like product, carbonisate, and stored underground for the long term.

CO₂ Capture through moist biomass

Recoal uses waste biomass, which is often produced in large quantities as a by-product of agriculture or food processing, as a raw material for the carbonisation process.

Moist and therefore highly active biomass is particularly suitable as a raw material, as it naturally absorbs and captures large quantities of carbon from the atmosphere.

Carbonisation

In the carbonisation plant developed by Recoal, waste biomass is converted into carbonisate, a product similar to coal, under high temperature and pressure. The process is similar to the natural formation process of coal millions of years ago.

Long-term storage

The carbonisate produced is then stored underground in geological storage sites, such as gravel pits or other extraction sites for mineral resources. This ensures safe and long-term carbon removal (CDR).

What sets Recoal apart?

The process developed by Recoal clearly stands out from other CDR methods, such as direct CO₂ removal from the air. Due to the high-efficiency and great scaling potential of the method, Recoal can make a relevant contribution to achieving climate targets with this process.

Simple and safe – The process used by Recoal to store the carbonisate is based on a globally established and simple technology that can be utilised without risk.
Long-term – Recoal mimics the natural formation process of coal deposits through the production and storage of carbonised material. What is currently extracted from centuries-old coal mines is the result of a natural carbonisation process. Recoal harnesses this process, enabling the permanent storage of large quantities of CO₂. However, since the storage occurs below the top, biologically active layer of soil, it does not serve as a soil improvement measure.
Local – Moist waste biomass is abundantly available worldwide, presenting significant potential for carbon dioxide removal (CDR). The easy availability of waste biomass allows for local raw material sourcing and short transport distances.
Efficient – Feasibility studies from ZHAW, ETH Zurich, TU Delft, DMT GmbH, and Holinger AG demonstrate that Recoal’s method achieves a unique industry efficiency. With a carbon efficiency of around 90%, Recoal stands out significantly compared to other CDR methods.
Scalable – Recoal’s CO₂ removal and storage process incorporates the key factors for scalability: it is safe, locally applicable, efficient, and straightforward in terms of raw material procurement—and it can deliver a decisive impact due to its high efficiency.
Swiss Standards – As a Swiss-based start-up, Recoal adheres to Swiss and European environmental standards in the industry. The carbonisation process and the storage of the carbonised material are regularly tested for pollutants and closely monitored.
Circular potential – Nitrogen and phosphorus are by-products of carbonisation. Recoal’s process allows these nutrients to be recovered and potentially used as fertiliser in agriculture. This reduces the need for fossil fuels and avoids environmental pollution thanks to the environmentally friendly production process. Tests are currently underway to quantify this potential.

The next steps towards net-zero

We are convinced that net-zero by 2050 is possible. Founded in 2023, our mission is to remove one million tonnes of CO₂ from the atmosphere by 2031 – and thus contribute to a planet worth living on for future generations.

Detail engineering of the pilot facility in Switzerland

Commissioning of the pilot facility and storage of 1,000 tonnes of CO₂ per year in Switzerland

The first CO₂ removal certificate from Recoal will be available for sale.

Opening of the second facility ans storage of 10,000 tonnes of CO₂ per year

Recoal removes one million tonnes of CO₂ per year

Currently

Q2 2025

Mid-2025

2027

2031

Climate investment

Creating impact together: Become part of Recoal through a climate investment.

Our offer

To the highest standards: By mid-2025, Recoal will offer CO₂ removal certificates for your company.

About Recoal

We are Recoal: Our history and our mission.

Do you have any questions about our technology?

Get in touch with us. We are happy to answer your questions.

With CO2 removal to net-zero

Why do we need CO2 removal methods?