In Europe, a multi-institute project evaluating the use of marginal land to cultivate trees and shrubs for use as feedstocks for bioplastics, biochar, and pet litter has achieved “promising results.” The group assessed growth of Siberian elm, common juniper, hoary rock-rose, rosemary, birch, common broom, blackwood acacia, mora, common hornbeam and black poplar across six […]
In Boston, Sumitomo Chemical will collaborate with Ginkgo Bioworks to develop functional chemicals using synthetic biology. Under the terms of the deal, Ginkgo will utilize its strain design technology to develop a microbial strain and related fermentation process to produce an undisclosed target molecule, while Sumitomo Chemical will develop the manufacturing process and scale-up for […]
In Germany, flavors and fragrances giant Symrise has invested in Bonumose, a startup developing enzymatic solutions for sweeteners. The minority investment will advance Bonumose’s production of rare monosaccharides, such as tagatose and allulose, that can offer an alternative to artificial sweetener sucrose. The area represents “a high-priority focus” for Symrise’s North America region within the […]
In Israel, biodegradable material firm Balena and designer Kitty Shukman have partnered to create a unique, 3D-printed concept slide called ROOTS. The slip-on casual sandals were designed by Shukman and made from Balena’s BioCir™, a fully compostable and biodegradable elastomer for the fashion industry. Inspired by plant roots, the design integrates the “branches and stems” […]
In the United Kingdom, The Magical Mushroom Company has launched a crowdfunding campaign to develop and commercialize bodyboarding boards made from mycelium, hemp and chitin. The company has already deployed its material in biodegradable packaging. It decided to pursue bodyboards as its second application because bodyboards are often only used for one summer and are […]
In Germany, BMW I Ventures has made an undisclosed investment in NFW, a creator of all-natural, plastic-free alternatives to materials such as leathers, foams, and textiles. NFW has developed novel technologies that allow natural inputs to be shaped and molded into a durable, all-natural and fully recyclable leather alternative called MIRUM. The financing round will […]
In the Mediterranean Sea, architects Angelo Renna and Apurva Baldawa are trialing an artificial, but biodegradable, floating island designed to sustain aquatic creatures. Dubbed Isolotto, the island is made of a cork inner layer covered in gypsum. The top of the structure is suitable for plant growth, while the bottom features hills and valleys where […]
In Australia, researchers at Queensland University of Technology have developed a biobased glue that they hope can repair sections of the Great Barrier Reef damaged by cyclones, boats, or bleaching. Leonie Barner, professor of chemistry at the QUT, told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. that the glue is comprised of plant extract and biocompatible polymer. “So, […]
In New Brunswick, indigenous entrepreneur Nicole Hollins has founded Spark Sourcing to distribute solutions that reduce plastics content up to 50% by adding eco-shell, a patented eggshell-based material. Leveraging a network of partner factories across Asia, Spark Sourcing will sell the adaptable material to industries such as plastic goods, packaging, toys, pallets, and yoga mats. […]
In the United Kingdom, Holiferm and Fibenol will jointly develop biosurfactants from wood residues. The partnership will leverage Fibenol’s wood-based sugars and Holiferm’s fermentation expertise to produce sustainable alternatives to petrochemical- and palm oil-based surfactants. “Even though we are still young and relatively small companies, we believe that by working together, we can have a […]
