12 Sustainable Tech Innovations Making a Real Impact on Our Planet

10. Carbon Capture and Utilization

Cutting emissions is crucial, but what about the carbon that’s already out there? Enter carbon capture tech—machines and chemical systems designed to grab CO2 straight from the air, then store or repurpose it. Take Climeworks’ U.S. plant, which pulls in about 900 tons of carbon dioxide every year and channels it for commercial reuse or permanent storage. There are also newer methods that convert captured carbon into building materials, fuels, or even everyday products. While massive industry-wide adoption won’t happen overnight, every ton removed is a step toward healthier air. Experts call this technology a hedge—buying us time as we keep working on reducing emissions in the first place.