Bertrand Piccard unveils “Climate Impulse”: a revolutionary hydrogen-powered eco-friendly flight, with a large Belgian input, to inspire global change

In a world grappling with eco-pessimism and divisive views on climate action, Bertrand Piccard, renowned adventurer and environmentalist, is set to embark on a groundbreaking journey. In a letter to friends and supporters, Piccard revealed his latest adventure, teaming up with engineer Raphaël Dinelli for the first non-stop, round-the-world journey in a green hydrogen-powered aircraft – aptly named ‘Climate Impulse.’ Partnering with Belgian science company Syensqo, Piccard’s project intends to showcase tangible solutions for a cleaner and more efficient world. 

Scheduled for 2028, the Climate Impulse flight aims to be a beacon of hope, showcasing how innovative solutions can set the world on a sustainable course. Piccard emphasises the urgency of finding sustainable ways for humanity to function, lamenting the divisive nature of ecological discussions globally.

Drawing inspiration from his past achievements, such as the Breitling Orbiter and Solar Impulse, Piccard sees Climate Impulse as the embodiment of a vision dedicated to identifying and promoting clean and efficient solutions beneficial to both the environment and the economy. The aircraft is poised to revolutionise aviation, making a lasting contribution to the ecological transition.

Piccard, known for sparking global movements through his Foundation, seeks to ignite a similar impact with Climate Impulse. His goal is to provide hope, showcase solutions, and bring a pioneer spirit to the forefront of climate action. Through a 10-day journey across the globe, the aircraft will carry a powerful message – the proof that “we can do better with less.”

The Belgian technological partner, Syensqo (formerly part of Solvay), which collaborated with Piccard nearly 20 years ago on the Solar Impulse flight, is once again at the forefront. Syensqo will leverage its expertise and innovation power to manufacture the plane with tailor-made materials.

Piccard calls upon supporters to share the Reveal Video and follow the journey on social media with the hashtags #ClimateImpulse and #BeTheImpulse. He emphasises the importance of collective participation, believing that what they achieve in the skies can serve as an example of what is possible on Earth.

As Bertrand Piccard sets out on this unparalleled journey through the skies, the Climate Impulse project symbolises a beacon of hope and a call to action for a more sustainable future.

Key Points

1. Project Overview: Climate Impulse, led by Bertrand Piccard and engineered by Raphaël Dinelli, plans to complete the first non-stop round-the-world flight in a green hydrogen-powered aeroplane by 2028. The ambitious venture is backed by Syensqo, a Belgian science company with expertise in sustainable innovations.
2. Partnership with Syensqo: Syensqo, formerly part of Solvay, serves as the main technological partner, bringing its extensive expertise to enable the manufacture of the plane. The collaboration focuses on utilising tailor-made materials, including composite materials, films, and additives crucial for the aircraft’s structure, fuselage, wings, and hydrogen tanks.
3. Technological Breakthrough: The major challenge lies in maintaining liquid hydrogen at -253°C during the estimated nine-day flight, requiring revolutionary innovations in thermal tanks. Syensqo’s composite materials, high-performance materials for Proton Exchange Membranes, and binders for fuel cell electrodes will play a key role in achieving high-power density and efficiency.
4. Environmental Flagship: Beyond being a flight, Climate Impulse is positioned as an environmental flagship, aiming to revolutionise the aviation sector and promote global sustainability through innovative solutions. It represents a continuation of Bertrand Piccard’s legacy of sustainability exploration, following the Solar Impulse project.
5. Human, Environmental, and Scientific Adventure: Bertrand Piccard emphasises the broader goal of Climate Impulse, not just as a flight but as an exploration of new ways of thinking and acting to promote a better quality of life. The project seeks to shift the narrative from sacrifice and fear to enthusiasm and action.
6. Syensqo’s Role: Syensqo, having been a key partner in the Solar Impulse project nearly 20 years ago, brings its technological know-how and innovation power to Climate Impulse. The company’s CEO, Dr. Ilham Kadri, expresses enthusiasm for being part of this adventure, showcasing the power of sustainable innovations. “We are thrilled to be part of this ultimate flight, a non-stop zero emission around the world fuelled by green hydrogen. Our 13.200 Syensqo’ employees are proud to be part of this human, environmental and scientific adventure, showcasing the power of their sustainable innovations that will drive carbon neutrality for our customers and advance humanity,” says Dr. Ilham Kadri, CEO at Syensqo.