Homeostasis: Revolutionizing Carbon Capture and graphite production

Introduction to Homeostasis and Its Mission

In an era where climate change and carbon emissions dominate global discussions, innovative solutions are crucial to address these pressing issues. Enter Homeostasis, a Seattle-area sustainable tech startup that is pioneering a groundbreaking approach to carbon capture and utilization. Founded by Julien Lombardi and Makoto Eyre, Homeostasis is on a mission to transform atmospheric CO₂—a greenhouse gas in abundance—into a highly sought-after material: graphite. This crystalline carbon is not only valuable but also essential for various industrial applications, including battery manufacturing, nuclear power plants, steel production, and defense technologies. With a unique process called aqueous mineralization capture, Homeostasis is poised to make a significant impact on both the environment and the global supply chain.

The Technology Behind Homeostasis’ Carbon Capture

At the heart of Homeostasis’ innovation lies its proprietary technology: aqueous mineralization capture. This process involves removing carbon dioxide from the air and converting it into graphite—a material that is traditionally obtained through mining. Graphite is a critical mineral designated by both the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Defense, yet its production is dominated by China, creating geopolitical and supply chain vulnerabilities. By leveraging its cutting-edge technology, Homeostasis aims to provide a reliable, domestic, and affordable source of graphite, reducing dependency on imported materials and strengthening the U.S. energy infrastructure.

The company’s approach not only addresses the urgent need for carbon removal but also offers a sustainable solution to the growing demand for graphite. By transforming CO₂ into a valuable resource, Homeostasis is challenging the conventional view of carbon as a waste product. As Julien Lombardi, co-founder and chief scientist, emphasizes, "CO₂ doesn’t have to be waste. We can strengthen our energy infrastructure by transforming excess carbon into an abundant feedstock."

Funding and Support for Homeostasis’ Vision

Homeostasis’ innovative approach has garnered significant financial backing and support. In a recent announcement, the startup revealed it had secured a $600,000 pre-seed investment round. This funding is complemented by a $700,000 grant awarded by the Washington State Department of Commerce in September, as part of the state’s Climate Commitment Act. These investments highlight the confidence in Homeostasis’ technology and its potential to drive meaningful change in the fight against climate change.

The startup’s investors include the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, based in Minnesota, Kayak Ventures, and several angel investors. This diverse group of backers underscores the broad appeal of Homeostasis’ mission and the recognition of its potential to disrupt traditional graphite production and carbon capture methods.

Partnerships and Operations

Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, Homeostasis is strategically positioned to engineer, fabricate, and test its technology while managing business operations. The company has also established a presence in New York, where it focuses on researching and characterizing its graphite production. Collaborations with organizations like the Clean Energy Testbeds at the University of Washington further enhance its capabilities, providing access to resources and expertise that accelerate the development of its technology.

Homeostasis has made significant strides in advancing its technology, having already developed a prototype device. The next step in its journey involves deploying pilot projects, with plans to secure customers for these initiatives later this year or early in 2026. By initially selling its systems to industrial customers seeking carbon removal solutions, Homeostasis aims to establish a foothold in the market. Over time, the company hopes to expand its operations by deploying the technology in its own facilities, capturing carbon from both industrial sources and directly from the air.

Market Potential and Industry Significance

The demand for graphite is on the rise, driven by its essential role in modern technologies. However, the current market is plagued by geopolitical risks, supply chain volatility, and high costs. Homeostasis addresses these challenges by offering a domestically produced, affordable, and reliable alternative. As CEO Makoto Eyre notes, "The graphite market today is full of geopolitical risks, volatile supply availability, and high prices. The U.S. needs a reliable, domestic and affordable source of graphite. Our technology answers that call."

Moreover, the carbon and emissions technology sector is attracting significant attention from investors, with $12.2 billion raised in 2023 alone, according to PitchBook. While this figure represents a 40% decrease from the previous year, it underscores the ongoing interest in innovative solutions to address climate change. Homeostasis is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, offering a unique solution that aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions while meeting the growing demand for critical minerals.

Other Pacific Northwest startups, such as CarbonQuest, Banyu Carbon, Svante Technologies, Ebb Carbon, and Carbon Engineering (acquired by Occidental Petroleum in 2023), are also pursuing carbon capture and removal technologies. However, Homeostasis stands out with its focus on graphite production—a niche with significant industrial and strategic importance.

The Vision for the Future

As Homeostasis continues to develop its technology and expand its operations, the startup remains committed to its core mission: transforming excess carbon into a valuable resource. With a strong team, innovative technology, and a clear vision for the future, Homeostasis is poised to make a tangible impact on both the environment and the global graphite market.

Julien Lombardi’s background in chemistry and Makoto Eyre’s expertise in engineering and carbon capture provide a solid foundation for the company’s success. Eyre’s diverse experience, which includes founding a previous carbon capture project, working as a space architect for Blue Origin, and studying neuroengineering, brings a unique perspective to the startup’s efforts.

While the current political climate under the Trump administration presents challenges for climate technologies, the essential industrial applications of graphite ensure that Homeostasis’ solution remains relevant and necessary. By addressing both carbon emissions and supply chain vulnerabilities, Homeostasis is not only contributing to a more sustainable future but also strengthening the U.S. energy infrastructure.

In summary, Homeostasis represents a beacon of hope in the fight against climate change, offering an innovative solution that transforms a global problem into a valuable resource. With its cutting-edge technology, strategic partnerships, and committed leadership, this startup is paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable tomorrow.