Shining a spotlight on Berkeley’s climate startup scene

Berkeley, California, located in the heart of the Bay Area, has long been a center of innovation. In recent years, it has also emerged as a hot spot for climate technology startups. UC Berkeley’s drive for entrepreneurship fuels a steady pipeline of startups aiming to tackle global challenges. As one of the nation’s leading environmentally conscious campuses, UC Berkeley fosters a deep sense of responsibility toward climate action that naturally manifests in the ventures its students and alumni pursue. This blend of innovation and environmental passion gives birth to startups like AirMyne, Twelve and Checkerspot. What are these companies, and how exactly are they approaching the climate crisis? 

The first  highlight goes to AirMyne, which arose with a mission to scale high-quality carbon removal through direct air capture. Their innovative approach uses a liquid solvent to capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This CO2-rich solution is then heated using low-temperature sources such as waste steam from industrial processes or geothermal energy, releasing pure CO2 for both sequestration or utilization. What’s special about AirMyne’s technology is that it’s designed for scalability and energy efficiency — by leveraging low-temperature heat, the system can integrate with various energy sources, reducing its reliance on high-grade heat to minimize operational costs. Their recent prototypes position them as a promising player in the carbon removal sector.

Next up, we have Twelve, a carbon transformation company with a proprietary Opus System that mimics industrial photosynthesis, converting CO2, water and renewable electricity into essential chemicals and fuels. This technology enables the production of CO2 products, offering a fossil-free alternative for various industries. One of their most promising innovations includes AirPlant One, which will produce jet fuel made from CO2, water and renewable energy, achieving up to 90% lower lifecycle emissions compared to conventional jet fuel. Twelve’s impact extends beyond aviation; in fact, major companies are already adopting their technology, including Mercedes-Benz, Procter & Gamble and NASA. By partnering with these corporate giants, Twelve can create CO2-made products ranging from automotive parts to household goods. By providing scalable carbon solutions, Twelve plays a crucial role in the shift toward a fossil-free future.

Another gem is ​Checkerspot, which is a biotechnology company that produces bio-based alternatives to petroleum-derived products. By optimizing microalgae, Checkerspot’s vertically integrated WING Platform biomanufactures unique oils that replace commodity oils and petroleum-based inputs. One of Checkerspot’s most recognizable endeavors is its consumer outdoor brand, WNDR Alpine. WNDR Alpine skis use Checkerspot’s algae-derived oils to offer exceptional durability. Whether it’s algae-based polyurethane in skis and surfboards or sustainable skincare ingredients, Checkerspot is proving that green innovation can enhance performance, not limit it.

Berkeley’s commitment to fostering climate-focused startups like AirMyne, Twelve and Checkerspot underscores the city’s crucial role in addressing global environmental challenges. Each of these companies reflect a distinct yet interconnected facet of the climate-tech revolution: carbon removal, carbon transformation and sustainable materials. Furthermore, they all have deep roots in the UC Berkeley ecosystem, where entrepreneurship is actively nurtured and environmental consciousness runs deep. These companies exemplify how innovative technologies can transform climate resilience and pave the way for a sustainable future.