Tech mogul and entrepreneur Elon Musk took will give $100 million to anyone who can bring him the “best” carbon-capture tech.
The rapid pace of development and progress over the past century has driven the planet’s resources to the brink of extinction. Sources say that at this current rate, pollution could soar past an acceptable level much earlier than the goals set by Paris Climate Agreement for the year 2100. Simply reducing carbon emissions is simply not enough.
Consequently, numerous industries and organizations are now slowly shifting focus from reducing emissions to developing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies to prevent any excess carbon dioxide from having a negative impact on the atmosphere.
Capitalizing on this opportunity, Elon Musk announced on Twitter a $100 million prize to those who could develop the best carbon capture technology but kept most of the details under wraps. In a reply to his tweet, he mentioned that additional details would be revealed “next week.”
Details next week
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 21, 2021
In 2018, X-Prize conducted a similar competition and awarded each of the top 5 finalists an equal share of the $20 million prize towards developing these technologies.
It’s safe to say that Elon’s prize money can not only create a difference towards the planet’s wellbeing, but it will also help to boost his philanthropic image since he now holds the title of being the wealthiest man on the planet.
Interestingly, he took to the matter to his devout followers, asking for advice on how to give away his wealth in the most effective way. His tweet read, “Critical feedback is always super appreciated, as well as ways to donate money that really make a difference (way harder than it seems).”
Carbon capture will gain increasing importance as we slowly progress towards a better future. At least it’s comforting to know that one man is ready to save what’s left of the planet in the direst circumstances.
Good one, Elon!
