Munich Startup: Who are you and what does TUM Carbon Removal do?
Justus Scharfstädt: We are TUM Carbon Removal Initiative e.V., a non-profit student association at the Technical University of Munich (TU Munich). Our goal is to develop an innovative technology for atmospheric CO₂ removal and long-term storage. After four years of numerous experiments and prototypes, we are currently building a pilot plant to test and optimize our innovative components and process steps in practice. Around 30 dedicated students contribute their knowledge from a wide range of disciplines.
Munich Startup: What is your founding story?
Justus Scharfstädt: Our initiative was born out of the desire to go beyond traditional research and make an active contribution to climate protection. In 2021, five students founded TUM Carbon as part of the Xprize competition for CO₂ absorption, launched by Elon Musk. Through many new members and close collaboration with partners from academia and industry, we have been able to gain technological and financial support over the years.
TUM Carbon Removal: Flexible research without pressure
Munich Startup: Why did you start an association and not a startup?
Justus Scharfstädt: As a purely student team, we wanted to create a flexible environment in which we could experiment and research technologically without commercial pressure. The association framework allows us to financial resources to be used specifically for research, development, and the construction of our pilot plant. And we can issue donation receipts – this helps us enormously with fundraising. We are currently still looking for supporters and partner companies to further advance our exciting project and realize innovative ideas.
Munich Startup: What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Justus Scharfstädt: In addition to technological development, with its many ups and downs, legal issues are also among our greatest challenges. The search for financial backers was also very difficult at times, leading us to repeatedly optimize our strategies. Nevertheless, thanks to our growing network of supporters and partners, we were able to overcome many of these hurdles and are currently financially sound. Our focus now is on making progress with the construction of the pilot plant and building visibility, especially with other strategic partners, supporters, and the press.
From Garching to the world?
Munich Startup: Where would you like to be in one year, where in five years?
Justus Scharfstädt: In one year, our pilot plant in Garching will be operational and deliver initial results on efficiency and scalability. At the same time, we are preparing the next steps toward larger-scale implementation. Whether we will do this as an association or later as a company is still open. In five years, we want to be technologically leading, financially stable, and positioned with a dedicated team that delivers real Impact in the area of carbon removal.
