Nine Canadian Startups Spotlighted in the 2025 Global Cleantech 100

In 2024, global temperatures reached unprecedented levels, marking the hottest twelve months since recordings began in 1850. The average temperature surpassed pre-industrial levels by 1.55 degrees Celsius, nearing the 2-degree threshold set by the Paris Agreement. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for scalable climate technology solutions. The Global Cleantech 100, compiled by the Cleantech Group, highlights some promising ventures in this sector, with nine Canadian startups included.

One noteworthy startup, Cyclic Materials from Kingston, focuses on recycling rare earth elements (REEs) used in batteries and high-tech devices. The company has developed a proprietary method to extract these elements from spent products, which can then be reformed into new magnets. With a $71 million investment from notable partners like Microsoft and BMW, Cyclic plans to expand into U.S. and European markets and commence operations in Quebec.

Enersion, another Canadian innovator, offers a breakthrough solar technology that generates hot water, which can then be transformed into heating, electricity, or cooling. This technology reduces dependency on traditional, energy-intensive cooling systems, potentially lowering overall electricity consumption, especially crucial as demand for cooling rises with climate change.

Toronto's e-Zinc is developing a zinc-based energy storage solution that promises to be more sustainable and longer-lasting than lithium-based batteries. By utilizing zinc dissolved in a liquid electrolyte, e-Zinc aims to provide a reliable energy source when solar and wind energy are unavailable, presenting a cost-effective alternative to traditional batteries.

Ionomr Innovations from Vancouver is working to enhance the production of hydrogen as a clean energy source by developing membranes that reduce the economic and environmental costs of electrolysis—the process needed to extract hydrogen fuel from water. The company also focuses on supporting fuel cell technologies and energy storage applications, preparing to scale up production with a new facility in Boston.

Mangrove Lithium, also based in Vancouver, is set to streamline lithium extraction processes. Their electro-chemical method allows them to convert impure rock extracts directly into lithium hydroxide on-site at mines, thereby optimizing the logistics and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with transporting lithium globally.

Pani, a startup from Victoria, aims to enhance the energy efficiency of wastewater treatment plants using artificial intelligence. Their platform analyzes sensor data, providing useful insights to operators for reducing energy consumption and emissions. This initiative is critical, given that wastewater treatment is responsible for a significant share of global electricity use.

Vancouver's pH7 Technologies has devised a method for extracting precious metals from catalytic converters and solar panels while developing environmentally friendly methods for copper extraction from low-grade ores—essential given the anticipated increase in copper demand due to electric vehicle production and renewable energy systems.

Summit Nanotech, based in Calgary, utilizes nanotechnology to facilitate a faster, more sustainable lithium extraction process that conserves freshwater and lowers land use. They are actively collaborating with local mining companies in Chile, targeting one of the largest lithium deposits globally.

Lastly, Svante specializes in carbon capture technology, producing filters and modular systems to intercept carbon dioxide emissions at industrial sites. Recently, Svante secured a $137 million investment for project development, reflecting an ongoing commitment to tackling climate change challenges directly.

These innovative Canadian startups not only contribute to the climate tech landscape but also exemplify the potential solutions to mitigate climate change while promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth.