This Startup Is Tackling Water Pollution, Carbon Capture, and Circular Agriculture—All at Once
Bio Clean Carbon is pioneering a low-cost, efficient approach to wastewater treatment that doubles as a climate solution. Its technology removes phosphorus and nitrogen from wastewater while simultaneously capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere — at a rate seven times more effective than algae.
Rather than producing waste, the process generates biomass that can be repurposed for renewable energy or converted into biochar, a nutrient-rich material that enhances soil health and serves as a sustainable fertilizer.
The Problem: Water Waste, Nutrient Runoff, and Untapped Carbon Solutions
Municipalities and industrial operations around the world struggle with wastewater treatment—often relying on energy-intensive systems or outdated infrastructure. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus lead to algae blooms and ecosystem collapse, while carbon emissions from wastewater treatment processes further contribute to climate change.
The Solution: A Modular, Multi-Impact System
Bio Clean Carbon’s approach is built for the circular economy: turning wastewater from a liability into a resource. The system operates with low capital requirements and a modular design, making it easier for municipalities and agribusinesses to adopt without the burden of large infrastructure projects.
Instead of waste, the process generates outputs with real value — renewable energy from biomass, biochar that restores soil health, and nutrient recovery that supports sustainable agriculture.
By integrating water purification, carbon capture, and resource recovery in one streamlined process, the company provides a pathway to cleaner water, healthier ecosystems, and more resilient food and energy systems.
The MassChallenge Impact: Mentorship + Investor Access
For Anne Karina, joining MassChallenge has already been a game-changing experience.
“I’ve met some really interesting mentors, which has been valuable for refining our pitch and preparing for investor conversations,” she says.
“The cohort is also fantastic—there’s so much idea sharing and support. We’ve even had early exposure to potential investors, which has been really helpful.”
What’s Next for Bio Clean Carbon?
With scalable infrastructure, growing investor interest, and a multi-benefit technology in hand, Bio Clean Carbon is now focused on expanding their pilot projects and engaging with partners across the climate, agriculture, and energy sectors.
And with solutions that clean more than just water, their future is looking refreshingly clear.