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Our study addresses the importance of ecological sustainability in combating climate change, by introducing a digital business ecosystem aimed at fostering low-carbon behaviors. Through longitudinal research, we examine the ecosystem’s emergence, focusing on its inception during the startup phase, with an emphasis on the role played by the initial multi-sided platform. Utilizing case study analysis, we delve into the efforts undertaken to legitimize this ecosystem through institutional mechanisms. Transitioning from a platform-based centralized phase to a decentralized phase, facilitated by APIs and blockchain technology, is determining in harnessing the ecosystem’s potential. Our findings contribute to the discourse on nascent entrepreneurial digital ecosystems, highlighting the interplay between centralization and openness facilitated by digital platforms. Moreover, we shed light on the legitimacy challenges faced by entities like sustainability organizations. For practitioners, our research offers valuable insights into leveraging disruptive technologies for innovation and navigating the legitimacy challenges inherent in nascent stages. JEL Codes: L86, M13, O33, Q56