Nova Scotia’s Planetary has been named a winner of the prestigious XPRIZE Carbon Removal XFACTOR Award, receiving $1 million in recognition of its pioneering work in seawater restoration to combat climate change.
The award underscores the growing importance of ocean-based solutions in the global fight to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Launched in 2021, the XPRIZE Carbon Removal competition challenged innovators worldwide to develop scalable methods for carbon removal. More than 1,300 teams entered, with Planetary selected as one of only two XFACTOR winners.
Planetary’s approach restores the ocean’s natural ability to absorb carbon dioxide by rebalancing seawater chemistry. Through partnerships with water treatment facilities and careful integration with existing infrastructure, the company helps coastal waters sequester more carbon, reduce acidity, and support marine ecosystems. Pilot projects have already demonstrated measurable results, offering a promising path for large-scale impact.
“This recognition reinforces what we know deeply: that climate action can be collaborative, science-led, and rooted in restoration,” commented Mike Kelland, CEO of Planetary.
Planetary emphasized that the award is not only a recognition of technological innovation but also of the company’s collaborative and transparent approach. Partnerships with coastal communities, regulators, and researchers have been critical to its success, ensuring that climate action benefits both people and ecosystems.
With the XPRIZE award in hand, Planetary plans to expand its partnerships, advance its technology, and refine its measurement and verification processes. The company remains committed to demonstrating how seawater restoration can be a vital force in global climate efforts.
“We believe seawater restoration can help turn the tide, literally and figuratively,” Planetary said in a statement.