Resumo

Climate change, fueled by human activities and the greenhouse effect, is reshaping our planet with rising temperatures. Direct Air Capture (DAC) emerges as a promising solution to combat this crisis. Though in early stages and facing cost challenges, DAC's potential to remove carbon from the atmosphere is vital in our fight against climate change. Urgent efforts are needed to devise profitable strategies and attract investors and clients, emphasizing the necessity for a well-structured business model to increase the chances of success for a DAC company.

Research problem: What would be an ideal business model for Company X to ensure the thriving of its technology in the current and future market? Objective: Develop a business model for a German company specializing in direct air capture within the environmental technology sector.

The literature review begins with an exploration of Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology, where DAC is likened to an intricate system proficient at directly extracting carbon dioxide from the atmosphere using specific chemicals and processes. Following this, we delve into the realms of carbon credits and carbon offsets, clarifying their role in monetizing CO2 removal. Lastly, we dissect the significance of business models, emphasizing their influence on a company's journey to success, maintaining a balance between formality and reader-friendliness for our article.

This study employs a qualitative approach, focusing on "Company X," a leader in direct air capture (DAC) technology. Data sources include company-provided information, author-conducted observations, and a literature review. The research includes an overview of Company X, a market analysis of competing technologies, an examination of other DAC companies and their models, and a customer analysis. The final section analyzes key elements for building Company X's business model, utilizing data from the literature review, internal sources, and market analysis.

The study initiates by providing an in-depth exposition of Company X's concept and organizational structure. Subsequently, it conducts a market analysis, benchmarking direct air capture (DAC) against alternative carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies. Further, it undertakes a comparative evaluation of Company X vis-à-vis other DAC players. A meticulous customer analysis ensues, shedding light on potential product consumers. Finally, leveraging insights gleaned from the literature review and market analysis, a tailored and well-structured business model is crafted for Company X.

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of building a business model for a Direct Air Capture (DAC) company, using Company X as a case study. DAC holds significant promise for addressing carbon mitigation and sustainability goals, offering advantages like low land use and scalability. However, challenges like cost and energy requirements persist. In order to effectively overcome these pressing challenges, a well-structures business model can be an asset for the company, increasing its chances for success.

GAMBHIR, Ajay; TAVONI, Massimo. Direct air carbon capture and sequestration: how it works and how it could contribute to climate-change mitigation. One Earth, Elsevier, v. 1, n. 4, p. 405–409, 2019. HASHGRAPH, Hedera. Carbon Offset vs Carbon Credit: What’s the Difference? 2023. Available from: https://hedera.com/learning/esg/carbon-offset-vs-carbon-credit. M. Ozkan, S. P. Nayak, A. D. Ruiz, and W. Jiang. Current status and pillars of direct air capture technologies. Iscience, page 103990, 2022.