Founder's Story

In the quiet moments of a family vacation, Jan Belt picked up Ministry for the Future by Kim Stanley Robinson. The novel's bold vision of individuals taking decisive action to combat climate challenges deeply resonated with her. It wasn't just a story about systems or governments - it was about leaders stepping forward to make meaningful change. Inspired by the book, Jan asked herself: How can I make an impact?

The answer was clear: preventing methane emissions - one of the most potent greenhouse gases. She saw this as an opportunity for immediate and measurable environmental impact.

Building a Vision of Sustainability

As with most of her undertakings, the decision to tackle this challenge wasn't just driven by inspiration - it was backed by decades of experience solving complex problems. Throughout her career as a business and technology executive, Jan led transformative initiatives for organizations like American Express, scaling teams, integrating innovative technologies, and delivering results on a global scale. She built a reputation for tuning ambitious visions into reality. 

Preventing methane emissions by plugging orphan oil and gas wells stood out as a practical opportunity to deliver significant environmental benefits quickly. She learned the technology to fix them existed, and the impact would be immediate.

With this solution in mind, Jan could imagine a world with her future grandchildren hiking through forests teeming with life, strolling along pristine shorelines, playing in crystal rivers, and growing up in communities that are resilient and empowered because industries and governments work together to solve pressing environmental problems.

From Passion to Action

Driven by a desire to turn her passion into purpose, VitalEco was founded with a simple but powerful mission: To tackle methane emissions at the source while fostering biodiversity, empowering communities, and inspiring future generations. The name itself - VitalEco - reflects the critical connection between ecological health and human vitality.

The focus on orphan wells became the starting point for VitaEco's work. The environmental benefits of plugging these wells were undeniable: reducing methane emission, restoring habitats, and protecting local biodiversity. In its first phase, the company plugged nine orphan wells, preventing emissions equivalent to over 700,000 tons of CO2.

A Holistic Approach to Sustainability

VitalEco's commitment doesn't stop at methane reduction. Jan believes in an "AND" strategy. Every project VitalEco undertakes is designed with a dual purpose: to fight methane emissions and to create a world where future generations can live, grow, and thrive. Our vision for the future is about building hope. This is the heart of VitalEco's mission: To leave the world better than we found it.

A Legacy for future Generations

Now, as VitalEco grows and Jan's vision matures, we strive to encourage a new generation. We believe in the importance of engaging and empowering future leaders who will carry this work forward. By connecting with emerging leaders in business, science, and environmental policy, VitalEco aims to inspire a new wave of entrepreneurs and change makers dedicated to creating a better world.

Looking to the Future

Jan's journey from a vacation reader to a sustainability leader is a story of passion, purpose, and action. "We're not just fighting for the planet; we're fighting for the people who call it home." VitalEco's work will continue to make a real difference - for today's communities, for local businesses, for universities shaping tomorrows leaders, and for the generations to come. Because... #TheEarthCantWait.