Etosha Cave Inspires at Web Summit 2024: Transforming Carbon and Shaping the Future of Sustainability
At Web Summit 2024 in Lisbon, Etosha Cave, Co-founder and Chief Science Officer of Twelve, brought a bold vision to life: transforming carbon into everyday products to build a sustainable, carbon-neutral future. Seeing her on stage—an African American scientist and leader—was a moment of pride and inspiration. Her pioneering work isn’t just reshaping technology; it’s setting an example for future generations, especially young Black girls, proving they can be powerful agents of change for humanity.
Twelve’s Mission: Products from Air, Not Oil
Etosha Cave, along with her team at Twelve, is tackling one of the planet’s most pressing challenges: reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Using carbon transformation technology, Twelve makes essential products from CO₂—one of the primary drivers of climate change—rather than oil. From fuels to everyday household goods, her team is leading a shift away from oil dependency, proving that science can recreate everyday materials in ways that protect the planet.
Inspiring Future Generations
Watching Etosha on stage, passionately explaining how science can transform industries, was nothing short of inspiring. For so many young women, especially Black girls, seeing her in a leadership role in science and technology is monumental. Representation in these fields is still limited, and Etosha Cave’s work proves that brilliance knows no boundaries. Her journey shows that young women can have a lasting impact on global issues and pursue a purpose that resonates beyond themselves.
Technology Review; on Centre Stage during the opening night of Web Summit 2024 at the MEO Arena in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo by David Fitzgerald/Web Summit via Sportsfile
The Future of Carbon Transformation
During her talk, Etosha explored the transformative power of carbon transformation technology. With Twelve’s innovations, CO₂ can be repurposed to create sustainable products that we use daily, turning an environmental challenge into a valuable resource. By rethinking our materials, her team is showing how we can preserve natural resources and protect our environment.
Her message was clear: this technology is more than just a novel innovation. It’s about creating a sustainable future for all. This aligns with the themes at this year’s Web Summit, where leaders explored how technology can address urgent global challenges while promoting economic sustainability.
The Importance of Representation in Science and Tech
Etosha Cave’s presence at Web Summit was a significant moment, not only for environmental science but also for diversity in technology. In a field historically dominated by men, her leadership is breaking down barriers. She reminds the tech community—and the world—of the immense value of diverse voices and experiences in tackling the world’s toughest problems.
A Force for Change
Etosha Cave is a reminder of the impact science and technology can have when driven by a purpose to benefit humanity. Through her work at Twelve, she is showing that innovation and compassion can work hand in hand. At Web Summit 2024, Etosha brought a vision of a future where we rethink our resources, build sustainable systems, and prioritize a cleaner, greener planet.
With every breakthrough she achieves, she inspires future scientists, entrepreneurs, and visionaries, showing them that they, too, can be a force for change. Etosha Cave is changing the world today—and setting the stage for generations to come.
