Amazon Inc. plans to test a groundbreaking carbon-removal material in its data centers, which face increasing environmental pressures due to the growing energy demands of AI systems, according to the startup involved- Orbital Materials.
Jonathan Godwin, CEO of Orbital Materials, revealed that the material was developed using AI from the startup. \”It functions like a sponge at the atomic scale, with cavities tailored to selectively trap CO2 while ignoring other substances,\” Godwin explained. Godwin noted that potential cost reductions are a key advantage, as the material adds about 10 percent to the hourly cost of renting a GPU chip for AI training—significantly cheaper than traditional carbon offsetting methods.
Data centers, however, are becoming more resource-intensive, requiring higher energy levels to support AI advancements and substantial water for cooling. This creates challenges for companies like Amazon, which has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Amazon Web Services AWS, the leading cloud computing provider by revenue, will initiate a trial of the innovative material at one of its data centers in 2025, as part of a three-year collaboration with Orbital. \”The deal also grants Orbital access to AWS technology and allows its open-source AI tools to be available for AWS clients,\” added Godwin.
Indrani Priyadarshini is a journalist and editorial professional specialising in technology, artificial intelligence, smart cities, green energy, and digital transformation. With over four years of experience in tech journalism and digital media, she is known for turning complex industry developments into clear, engaging, and insightful stories. Her expertise spans reporting, editorial strategy, digital publishing workflows, and in-depth coverage of emerging technologies shaping the future.
