Cardiff’s journey from a ticketed plumber and gasfitter to a leader in sustainable innovation is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. His story reflects the remarkable ways individuals can leverage their unique skills to address global challenges and inspire change in an industry poised to shape the future.


From Tools to Technology: The Early Days
Cardiff’s path began not in a corporate boardroom, but in the hands-on world of plumbing and gas fitting. Working with heating appliances in the trades, he witnessed firsthand the inefficiencies and environmental toll of natural gas systems. “The opportunity to create a significant positive impact on the environment by reducing carbon emissions initially attracted me to the CCUS sector,” he explains.
Curiosity sprouted in 2005 when Cardiff started exploring how to mitigate the environmental impact of the very systems he worked to maintain. Recognizing the potential to innovate, he joined forces with Kathi Fischer, a chemist, Scott Forgrave, the owner of a Calgary based HVAC company, and Warren Brooke, a professional engineer. Together, they developed the CarbinX, a micro-carbon capture unit that could revolutionize the way natural gas appliances contribute to emissions reduction.
The CarbinX technology captures CO₂ emissions at their source—commercial natural gas heating appliances—and transforms them into materials used to create consumer products like soap and shampoo. CleanO2, the company Cardiff co-founded in 2013, was born from this innovative idea.
CleanO2: A Trailblazer in CCUS
Under Cardiff’s leadership, CleanO2 has become a pioneer in the CCUS sector, known as the first company, to transform carbon dioxide emissions into natural soap. “CleanO2 is dedicated to reducing carbon emissions from natural gas heating appliances through innovative technologies” Cardiff states. This commitment reflects in the company’s products, which not only help customers meet their sustainability goals, but also make tangible contributions to reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.
As CEO, Cardiff’s responsibilities are vast and varied. He oversees strategic planning, product development, and partnership management while driving the company’s growth. His typical day involves meeting with stakeholders, refining innovations, and keeping an eye on regulatory changes. “Navigating the regulatory landscape, which varies significantly across regions, is one of the main challenges” Cardiff admits. Scaling up production while maintaining quality and managing costs presents another hurdle.
Despite these challenges, Cardiff’s optimism remains unshaken. “The future looks promising for CleanO2 as we continue to innovate and expand our market reach. We aim to enhance our technology, increase our product offerings, and enter new markets globally” he shares.
Innovating for a Cleaner Future
At the heart of CleanO2’s mission is the “utilization” in CCUS, which involves finding creative ways to reuse and recycle captured CO₂. Transforming what is traditionally considered waste into valuable resources aligns with Cardiff’s vision for sustainability.
Turning carbon into consumer products like soap may seem like a small step, but it represents a broader shift toward incorporating environmental responsibility into everyday life. CleanO2’s CarbinX units are already making a difference, offering businesses an innovative way to reduce their carbon footprints while gaining tangible, marketable benefits from their environmental initiatives.
“Working in the CCUS sector makes me proud because of the direct impact we have on reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. Our work contributes to a cleaner planet,” Cardiff reflects.


The Balancing Act of Leadership
Running a pioneering company like CleanO2 is no small feat, and for Cardiff, the demands of leadership often clash with personal priorities. “While I strive to balance my responsibilities as a CEO with my family time, the reality is that building this company demands significant sacrifice,” he says candidly.
When he’s not driving innovation, Cardiff enjoys spending time outdoors and cherishes moments with his family. Yet, he acknowledges the challenges of choosing between being a dedicated father and husband or excelling as a CEO. It’s a trade-off many leaders face, but one Cardiff approaches with humility and a long-term view of the legacy he hopes to leave behind.
Advice for Aspiring Innovators
For those interested in the CCUS industry, Cardiff offers sage advice: “Stay passionate and persistent. The industry is evolving rapidly, and there is immense potential for innovative solutions. Building a strong network and staying informed about technological and regulatory developments is crucial.”
His career exemplifies the power of resilience and collaboration. From his early days as a tradesman to his current role as CEO, Cardiff’s trajectory underscores the importance of embracing challenges and seeking opportunities to make a meaningful difference.
Alberta: A Hub for CCUS Innovation
CleanO2’s success highlights Alberta’s growing role in the CCUS sector. With its geological capacity for carbon storage, skilled workforce, and strong industrial base, the province is well-positioned to lead in low carbon solutions. Companies like CleanO2 show how local innovation can have global impact, and help Alberta play a key role in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
A Vision for Tomorrow
Looking ahead, Cardiff envisions CleanO2 playing an even greater part in the global transition to long-term sustainability. By refining their technologies, expanding product offerings, and entering new markets, the company aims to stay at the forefront of the CCUS sector.
For Cardiff, it’s not just about business—it’s about contributing to a net-zero future and leaving a cleaner planet for generations to come. “The CCUS sector plays a crucial role in achieving net-zero emissions and combating climate change,” he asserts. “Our work shows how creative solutions can lead to significant environmental improvements.”
The Soapbox of Sustainability
Jaeson Cardiff’s journey is a great example of how curiosity, expertise, and determination can lead to real-world breakthroughs. From plumbing tools to carbon-capturing soaps, his work at CleanO2 shows just how powerful the CCUS industry can be. Cardiff’s story isn’t just about tackling environmental issues—it’s about finding creative, practical solutions that can make a big difference in the world.
In a world grappling with the urgent need for climate action, Cardiff reminds us that solutions often lie in unexpected places. And sometimes, the path to a sustainable future begins with something as simple—and as powerful—as a bar of soap.

CCUS presents a significant opportunity to help Canada reach its net-zero emissions goals – and it is happening right here, in western Canada. With a variety of roles and skills in demand, there is something for everyone is Alberta’s CCUS sector.
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