#green technology #France #Lyon #Climate Innovation #Team for the Planet

Team for the Planet: A New Horizon in Climate Action

In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering climate innovation, Team for the Planet has announced a global call inviting researchers, engineers, and entrepreneurs to submit their innovative ideas that can contribute to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative not only addresses the urgent climate crisis but also offers substantial financial incentives, with €1 million awarded to each winning project designed to scale innovative technologies in the market.

Founded in Lyon, France in 2020, Team for the Planet operates under the principle that decarbonization must be a profitable venture for both investors and innovators. Jean Jouzel, a respected figure and former vice-president of the IPCC, emphasizes the necessity for major innovations to structurally decarbonize the economy. "Most of the solutions required already exist but are not being implemented on a large scale," he states. This initiative seeks to identify promising technologies worldwide that could drastically reduce emissions and to provide them with the tools necessary to succeed.

Beyond Financial Support: A Holistic Approach

Winners of this call for innovation will not only receive capital but also substantial support from experienced executives who will co-direct their projects. Each winner will gain access to a robust network of 133,000 shareholders, along with the adoption of an open licensing model proven to enhance project profitability tenfold. The eligibility of applicants is universal, disregarding nationality or legal structure, as long as their innovation promises a measurable impact on greenhouse gas reduction, targeting reductions of several million tons of CO₂ equivalents annually.

Rather than a traditional selection process, each proposal will be scrutinized by a pool of 10,000 trained volunteer evaluators. This will be complemented by an independent scientific committee composed of 14 experts from leading institutions such as CNRS, CEA, INRAE, and École Polytechnique, as well as 13 private equity professionals. The final step in this rigorous evaluation process involves shareholders casting their votes. Since its inception, over 1,700 proposals have been received, resulting in the formation of 14 companies across various vital sectors, including energy, industry, transportation, agriculture, and construction.

Economic Incentives Aligned with Environmental Goals

In a unique twist, as of January 1, 2026, the shares valued at €1 will appreciate annually based on the real portfolio value. Notably, profits are recognized only when the climatic objectives associated with the shares are met. The financial figures underline the initiative's success; over €41 million has been raised in the last five years, marking the largest crowdfunding campaign in Europe and attracting the interest of both venture capital and institutional investors.

Mehdi Coly, the founder of Team for the Planet, remarks, "A ton of avoided CO₂ is now regarded as an economic asset. The winning innovators won't merely receive a prize; they will initiate the first round of funding for a future leader in decarbonization."

For those interested in contributing to this vital cause, applications are open, and the winners will be announced in December, each receiving €1 million in shares alongside comprehensive business support.

About Team for the Planet

Team for the Planet is a non-profit limited company established in Lyon, France in 2020, supported by the French government and investors such as the Mulliez family and the Duval Group. With 133,000 shareholders and €41 million raised, the organization is committed to supporting the creation of 100 companies, measuring its performance through what are called 'Climate Dividends'—where one dividend equals one ton of CO₂ avoided. This model showcases a forward-thinking approach to addressing climate change, encouraging broad participation and innovation in times of urgent climate necessity.

For further information, visit 1-Million-Planet to learn about the submission process and eligibility requirements.