Pacific Northwest entrepreneurs are increasingly using their skills to address environmental and climate issues, with many innovative solutions being recognized at the GeekWire Awards. Finalists for Sustainable Innovation of the Year include companies tackling pollutants, extracting carbon dioxide from seawater, and converting crab shells into industrial chemicals. Last year’s winner in this category was Pure Watercraft, a maker of electric powerboats. The GeekWire Awards highlight top innovators and companies in the Pacific Northwest technology sector, with finalists selected based on community nominations and input from judges. Winners will be announced at a live event in Seattle on May 9.
Among the finalists for Sustainable Innovation of the Year is Aquagga, a Tacoma-based startup with technology that removes PFAS “forever chemicals” from contaminated water. These chemicals have been widely used in various products and have polluted drinking water sources nationwide. Aquagga’s solution is compact, operates at lower temperatures and pressures, and effectively targets small PFAS compounds. The company has secured significant funding from federal agencies and private investors. Another finalist, Banyu Carbon, is working on a technology to remove carbon dioxide from seawater, which could play a crucial role in mitigating climate change.
Carbon Robotics, a Seattle startup, is developing machines that use AI and computer vision technology to eliminate weeds without harming crops or soil. The company’s LaserWeeder machine has been effective in weed control across various crops and has garnered significant investment. Electric Era, another Seattle-based company, produces the PowerNode EV fast-charging station, which combines charging devices with onsite batteries to help businesses avoid peak electricity prices. The startup has received substantial funding and state grants to deploy electric vehicle charging stations nationwide.
Tidal Vision, headquartered in Bellingham, Washington, is utilizing a green chemistry process to convert discarded crab shells into chitosan, a valuable industrial chemical with various applications. The company’s innovative approach has the potential to replace toxic chemicals and petroleum products in different industries. With a founder who was once an Alaskan fisherman, Tidal Vision has raised substantial funding and acquired another business focused on water cleaning services. These Pacific Northwest companies are at the forefront of sustainable innovation, providing solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
As the world faces increasing environmental and climate concerns, the work of these innovative startups in the Pacific Northwest is crucial in finding sustainable solutions. With technologies that address pollutants, carbon capture, weed control, and industrial chemical production, these companies are making significant strides in creating a more environmentally friendly future. The recognition of their efforts at the GeekWire Awards showcases the importance of sustainable innovation and the positive impact it can have on addressing global challenges. By supporting and investing in these forward-thinking entrepreneurs, we can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient planet for future generations.
