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Braskem Invests US$87 Million to Expand Biopolymer Production by 30%
In a significant move to address the growing demand for sustainable products worldwide,
Walmir Soller, O/P VP for Europe and Asia and responsible for Braskem's I'm greenTM biobased business globally, emphasizes the importance of this expansion, stating, “The increase in biobased ethylene capacity reinforces Braskem's commitment to sustainable development and innovation and showcases the success of the strategy we embarked on thirteen years ago when we introduced the world's first biobased polyethylene production on an industrial scale with proprietary technology. Our aim is to meet the society's and customers' demand for products with minimal environmental impact.” A remarkable aspect of this biobased ethylene production is its positive effect on reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Each ton of plastic resin made from renewable feedstock removes approximately three tons of CO2 from the atmosphere. Since the plant's establishment in 2010, it has produced over 1.2 million tons of I'm greenTM biobased polyethylene, contributing to the removal of around 185,000 tons of CO2 equivalent annually with the recent capacity increase.
Braskem's portfolio of biobased resins is exported to more than 30 countries and incorporated into products by over 250 major brands, including Allbirds, DUO UK, Grupo Boticário, Johnson & Johnson, Natura & Co, Nissin, and Tetra Pak. These biobased resins find application in packaging, bags, toys, housewares, industrial cables and wires, packaging films, hockey fields, reusable water bottles, and various other products.
Corbion Decides Not to Proceed with New PLA Bioplastics Plant in France
UPM Biochemicals and Selenis Partner on Sustainable PETG
Under this alliance, UPM will supply Selenis with its revolutionary sustainable bio mono-ethylene glycol (Bio-MEG) known as UPM BioPura™. This Bio-MEG is derived from certified hardwood sourced sustainably from forests near Leuna in Germany. UPM is currently building an industry-scale biorefinery in this region, which converts woody biomass into next-generation biochemicals. Importantly, this biomass does not compete with food resources, making it an ideal solution for manufacturers aiming to lower their carbon footprint. By incorporating UPM BioPura™ into their production process, Selenis will be able to create partial BioPETG, offering their customers a viable pathway to achieving net-zero targets and significantly reducing their scope 3 emissions. This strategic shift allows businesses to transition seamlessly from fossil-based to renewable, drop-in ingredients, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging industry.
Selenis is known for its dedication to product innovation focused on recyclability in the PET stream. The company has developed revolutionary technology that upcycles plastic waste into new polymers, replacing fossil-fuel feedstocks with recycled polyester raw materials. By integrating bio and recycled content into their products, Selenis Converters and brand owners can effectively reduce their carbon footprint without compromising performance. Additionally, Selenis is investing in self-generated solar energy, further supporting brand owners in their decarbonization strategies by enabling the usage of fully green energy in the polymer manufacturing process. Marta Matos Gil, Chief Sustainability Officer at Selenis, highlighted the company's focus on markets where recyclable solutions are in high demand due to shorter product lifespans, emphasizing the importance of circularity in industries like packaging and cosmetics. This partnership with UPM is a significant step towards becoming a regenerative company and developing products that align with sustainable standards in recyclability, resource efficiency, and eco-friendly compositions, thereby contributing to a considerable reduction in plastic waste.
Ginkgo Bioworks and Sumitomo Chemical Partner to Develop Functional Chemicals
In a major step towards advancing sustainable chemical production,
“In the field of chemicals, there is an urgent need to develop products and processes with low environmental impact, and we believe that the use of synthetic biology will meet this need. By strengthening our collaboration with Ginkgo Bioworks as a partner in synthetic biology, we aim to accelerate the development of innovative technologies that could be a game changer for the chemical industry and ultimately consumers,” said Hiroshi Ueda, Executive Vice President of Sumitomo Chemical.
Ginkgo Bioworks stands at the forefront of cell programming, providing flexible, end-to-end services that address challenges in various markets, including food and agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and industrial and specialty chemicals. In addition, its biosecurity and public health unit, Concentric by Ginkgo, is dedicated to building global infrastructure for biosecurity to empower governments, communities, and public health leaders in preventing, detecting, and responding to diverse biological threats. This partnership represents a significant step in advancing sustainable chemical solutions and fostering a greener future through cutting-edge synthetic biology.
Pioneering Innovations Win “Renewable Material of the Year 2023” Award at Global Conference
The annual Renewable Materials Conference, held in Siegburg near Cologne, Germany, concluded with resounding success as the winners of the prestigious “Renewable Material of the Year 2023” innovation award were announced. Among a record-breaking attendance of 465 participants from 32 countries, three cutting-edge solutions stood out for their remarkable contributions to sustainability and the replacement of fossil carbon in various industries. The conference, which took place from May 23 to 25, attracted industry experts, researchers, and policymakers to explore the future of the chemicals and materials sector. Key themes included advancing biobased products, exploring CO2-based alternatives, and embracing chemical recycling. Attendees discussed the emerging trends for the future's refineries and the need for a joint, holistic approach to building a sustainable and innovative industry.
Notably, the conference highlighted the growing urgency for businesses to shift away from fossil carbon products to achieve net-zero emissions. Investors and brand owners are increasingly pressuring suppliers to invest in alternative carbon sources, underscoring the significance of renewable materials for long-term success and sustainability. Michael Carus, CEO of
Kuori (CH) - Biobased and Biodegradable Elastic Materials
Kuori impressed the judges with its innovative elastic materials made from food waste, such as banana peels and nutshells. These sustainable alternatives to conventional elastic materials are initially applied in shoe soles, promoting circularity and ecological end-of-life perspectives. The materials are fully reintegrated into the biological cycle through industrial composting, enabling a circular business model for manufacturers.
COLIPI (DE) - Carbon-Light Yeast Oil
COLIPI's groundbreaking bioprocesses transform CO2 into carbon-light alternatives to palm oil. Using patented gas fermentation bioreactors and fast CO2-utilizing microorganisms, the company produces carbohydrate-rich biomass that serves as feedstock for yeast oil fermentation. The resulting yeast oil contains valuable molecules like antioxidants and has a low CO2 footprint, making it both environmentally friendly and economically viable.
traceless® materials (DE) - Plastic-Free Natural Polymer
traceless® is a remarkable plastic-free natural polymer made from agricultural industry plant residues, boasting 100% biobased carbon content. As a toxic-free and climate-friendly alternative, traceless® emits up to 95% less CO2 during production compared to conventional plastics. The scalable and efficient production technology saves 83% of fossil energy demand. This fully bio-circular material can be used in various end products, from single-use items to coatings and adhesives.
The winners were commended for their groundbreaking contributions, promoting sustainability and driving the industry towards a greener, fossil-free future. The conference served as a platform for experts to discuss strategies for achieving a net-zero circular economy, with a strong focus on alternative feedstocks, such as biobased, CO2-based, and recycled options.
H&M Group Invests in Kintra Fibers
H&M Group's investment in Kintra Fibers not only allows the company to expand its resin and yarn production capacities but also provides support to its frontier brand partners, including global brands alongside H&M Group. This latest investment is part of H&M Group's broader commitment to fostering sustainable innovations in the fashion industry. Over the past year, the company has made significant investments in various sustainable startups. Among them,
BASF to Expand Biobased Alkyl Polyglucosides Production Capacity in Asia-Pacific and North America
BASF, the global leader in alkyl polyglucosides (APG®s), is set to bolster its production capacity with two expansions at its facilities in Bangpakong, Thailand, and Cincinnati, Ohio. These expansions come as a response to the rising global demand for biobased and biodegradable surfactants, reinforcing BASF's commitment to providing sustainable solutions to its customers. By simultaneously expanding in two key regions, BASF aims to strengthen its market position and serve customers more efficiently from regional supply points. The move will also help reduce cross-regional volume flows, ensuring quicker delivery times and enhanced flexibility in meeting customer demands. The new production lines are expected to be operational by 2025. Mary Kurian, President Care Chemicals at BASF, highlighted the company's dedication to delivering sustainable products with superior performance. The expanded capacity for APGs will play a crucial role in advancing the use of biobased and biodegradable surfactants across various industries, including personal care, home care, industrial and institutional cleaning, and industrial formulations.
As the sole producer of APGs in North America, BASF is poised to help customers reformulate and meet the increasing demand for sustainable solutions. In Asia, the Bangpakong site in Thailand is already an essential production hub for BASF. The addition of the new APG line in Bangpakong, together with the existing APG plant in Jinshan, China, will ensure short delivery times and business continuity for customers across the continent.
Alkyl polyglucosides (APGs) are derived from 100% natural and renewable feedstocks, making them biobased and readily biodegradable. Their mild and sustainable nature, coupled with superior performance, makes them ideal for various applications in personal care, home care, industrial & institutional cleaning, industrial formulations, and agriculture markets. The non-ionic nature of APGs also enhances their versatility in formulations alongside other surfactants. BASF's investments in expanding regional production capacities in Asia and North America align with its dedication to addressing future challenges and promoting sustainability.
DIC Corporation Invests in California-Based Biotech Startup, Debut Biotechnology Inc.
Debut Biotechnology possesses cutting-edge enzyme discovery and design technologies, as well as an advanced biomanufacturing platform that incorporates precision fermentation and cell-free manufacturing. With these proprietary technologies, Debut enables the selective, stable, and sustainable production of a wide range of rare, naturally derived organic compounds. The strategic collaboration between DIC and Debut Biotechnology began with joint efforts in developing natural pigments in July 2021. Following this successful venture, the two companies extended their collaboration to include polyphenols for cosmetics and nutrition-related applications in March 2023.
By investing in Debut Biotechnology, DIC seeks to bolster its innovation capabilities and explore novel opportunities in the healthcare and color science domains. The startup's advanced biomanufacturing platform and expertise in enzyme discovery complement DIC's commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly solutions. The partnership with Debut Biotechnology aligns with DIC's Vision 2030, which outlines the company's commitment to contributing to society through groundbreaking solutions in key areas like healthcare and color science.
Carbios and Indorama Ventures Collaborate to Advance PET Recycling Project in France
French company
The project, initially announced in February 2022, centers around the implementation of enzymatic depolymerization technology developed by Carbios. As part of the MOU, Indorama intends to contribute approximately €110 million in equity and non-convertible loan financing to the joint venture. Carbios, which applied for plant permitting in December 2022, is set to acquire 13 hectares of land at Indorama's PET manufacturing facility in Longlaville, France. Pending the granting of necessary permits in the coming months, construction is anticipated to commence by the end of this year, with commissioning expected in 2025. The plant's annual production capacity will be 50,000 metric tons of PET precursors. Emmanuel Ladent, CEO of Carbios, said the technical due diligence conducted with Indorama confirmed the robustness of Carbios' disruptive technology. He highlighted the significance of the Longlaville project as a stepping stone towards Carbios' ambitious global industrial and commercial deployment goals in the realm of advanced PET recycling.
Azelis Partners with Biobased Chemicals Firm Groupe Berkem for Distribution in Asia
Groupe Berkem specializes in producing a diverse array of natural active ingredients derived from plant materials, including polyphenols renowned for their antioxidative functionalities. This collaboration with Azelis enables Groupe Berkem to tap into the growing demand for sustainable and biobased cosmetic ingredients in the Asian market, further strengthening its position in the region. With this partnership, Azelis enhances its ability to cater to the increasing demand for natural and plant-based cosmetic solutions in Thailand and South Korea.
Luminy® PLA Bioplastics by TotalEnergies Corbion Comply with EU Taxonomy Regulation on Sustainability
The EU Taxonomy Regulation plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable innovation by defining the criteria for labeling products as 'sustainable' within the European Union. This framework revolves around six environmental objectives, namely climate change mitigation, climate change adaptation, sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources, transition to a circular economy, pollution prevention and control, and protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems. Its aim is to boost sustainable investments and advance the implementation of the European Green Deal.
“As TotalEnergies Corbion, we remain dedicated to collaborating closely with policymakers, regulators, and non-governmental organizations to foster the development of more sustainable plastic alternatives,” stated Maelenn Ravard, the company's Sustainability and Regulatory Manager. “In addition to complying with the EU Taxonomy Regulation, our entire Luminy® PLA product line is certified 100% biobased according to EN16785 and the USDA Biopreferred program. Moreover, our production plant adheres to ISO certifications for environmental management, quality, and safety, while following regulations outlined by the World Wildlife Fund's sugarcane industry organization Bonsucro. We take pride in setting a standard for the bioplastics industry going forward.”
Luminy® PLA bioplastics are derived from sugarcane, a renewable resource harvested annually, and represent one of the few bioplastics that are both biobased and biodegradable. The whitepaper “Planting the Future with PLA” reveals that producing one kilogram of PLA requires just 1.75m2 of sugarcane farmland, which absorbs 1.8 kg of CO2 from the atmosphere during its growth. Notably, TotalEnergies Corbion's entire production capacity in Thailand utilizes a mere 0.08% of arable land, further highlighting the efficiency of land use and carbon capture benefits, making Luminy® PLA bioplastics a sustainable alternative to fossil-based plastics.
Amyris Launches Strategic Transformation Program and Secures Funding
A Transformation Office, supported by PwC, has been established to oversee various workstreams to achieve the Company's targeted cost reduction of approximately $250 million. This reduction will span cost of goods sold, operating expenses (including workforce reductions), and a simplification of its business portfolio. John Melo, Chief Executive Officer and President of Amyris, expressed, “We are pleased to have the support of the PwC team and our board's Restructuring Committee in expanding and accelerating our 'Fit to Win' efficiency and cost reduction program. This initiative marks an important and necessary step in Amyris' evolution to reduce costs, enhance operational effectiveness, and achieve sustainable growth while continuing to deliver sustainable chemistry through our Lab to MarketTM capabilities and investing in our leading consumer brand portfolio. We are committed to executing our strategy and accelerating our path to profitability.”
In addition to this strategic transformation, Amyris has secured funding by entering into loan amendments with its principal secured lenders, Foris Ventures, LLC and DSM Finance B.V. These amendments resulted in a waiver of existing defaults, thereby ending the previously entered forbearances with the same parties. Furthermore, on June 5, 2023, the company established a secured term loan facility with Anesma Group, LLC, an affiliate of Foris, which has made up to $50 million available to Amyris. A portion of this loan has already been drawn by the company on the same date. The net proceeds from the Loan Facility will be utilized for working capital and general corporate purposes.
OQ Chemicals Introduces Biobased Oxbalance TCD Alcohol DM
“Our Oxbalance products provide our customers with a sustainable alternative to conventional fully synthetic products. Certified as biomaterials, they fully meet the specifications and qualities of conventional products without requiring a new approval or qualification. With these products that are mass-balanced according to ISCC PLUS, we offer our customers a solution that meets the growing demand for sustainable raw materials and the increasing requirements for complete transparency in the supply chain. Our customers can switch to our biobased Oxbalance products without compromising on performance or quality,” said David Faust, Executive Vice President Oxo Performance Chemicals at OQ Chemicals.
The OxBalance product line adopts the ISCC PLUS mass balance approach, which monitors renewable raw materials in chemical manufacturing processes and allocates them to the end products. Oxbalance is a registered trademark of OQ Chemicals.
Bluepha and TotalEnergies Corbion Partner to Advance Sustainable Biomaterials Solutions in China
As part of the memorandum of understanding (MOU), Bluepha and TotalEnergies Corbion will collaboratively promote PLA and PHA market applications in China. Before the MOU signing ceremony, Thomas Philipon visited the Bluepha PHA Biorefinery, which was completed in October 2022 in Yancheng and has recently commenced production of the Bluepha® PHA product.
INEOS Nitriles Launches InvireoTM, a Biobased Acrylonitrile with 90% Lower Carbon Footprint
Invireo is produced at INEOS Nitriles' advanced facility in Cologne, Germany, utilizing bio-attributed propylene, effectively replacing fossil fuel resources. The environmental credentials of Invireo have been verified by the prestigious International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC Plus) and Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB), which authorize the integration of bio, bio-circular, and circular feedstock into the supply chain through a mass balance approach. Mass balance allows for the blending of renewable and recycled materials with traditional feedstock, resulting in a lower-carbon product. This approach marks a significant step toward achieving a fully circular economy.
Invireo products are certified by ISCC Plus and RSB, ensuring a 100% substitution of fossil-based propylene feedstock in its production system, further enhancing its eco-friendliness compared to conventionally produced alternatives. Acrylonitrile is a vital component in industries like automotive, aerospace, textiles, chemicals for special applications, and sporting goods, all of which are essential for daily life.
Konica Minolta Collaborates with AIST to Establish Bioprocess Technology Cooperative Research Laboratory
Konica Minolta has been at the forefront of integrating materials informatics and process informatics into its chemical plants, capitalizing on its expertise in sensing technologies, AI technologies (including machine learning and deep learning), and imaging-IoT technology. At the Bioprocess Research Lab, the focus will be on leveraging these proprietary technologies in tandem with AIST's comprehensive capabilities to develop monitoring technology for producing innovative complex materials. Additionally, the lab will address the challenges of scaling up the production process and enhancing production stability to facilitate efficient biomanufacturing.
One of the major hurdles in biomanufacturing lies in scaling up the process. In smart cell-based production methods, where microbial cells exhibit enhanced material-production capabilities, slight variations in conditions can significantly impact microbe behavior and lead to varying production reactions. Thus, ensuring consistent yield and quality during mass production becomes extremely challenging, even if the target benchmarks are achieved in laboratory settings. Moreover, substituting conventional fossil-based raw materials with biobased alternatives derived from smart cells is hindered by production process variability and inconsistent quality, which can arise from inherent impurities in biobased raw materials, ultimately affecting the final product yield and quality.
To tackle these complexities, the Bioprocess Research Lab will gather data from both in vitro and mass production processes and analyze it cohesively to predict microbial behavior in large-scale production environments, enabling better process management.
Key objectives of the Bioprocess Research Lab include the development of sensing devices that combine data from in vitro and mass production processes, employing Konica Minolta's optical and chemical technologies alongside AIST's biomanufacturing expertise. These sensing devices will feed data into a data-driven AI-based sensing system for analysis and production process control. The Lab will also research designing smart cells capable of producing chemical materials suitable for mass production as a model case, leading to the efficient provision of a new process design system and biobased products.
ArcelorMittal and LanzaTech Achieve Major Milestone with Ethanol Samples from Innovative Carbon Capture Facility
ArcelorMittal, the world's leading steel company, in partnership with
The facility's latest progress showcases the successful conversion of carbon-rich waste gases from steelmaking into advanced ethanol through LanzaTech's biobased process. This fermentation technique utilizes biocatalysts instead of yeast, fermenting gases directly, and has now delivered its first ethanol samples. With the inoculation process complete and successful, the facility is now poised for commercial-scale ethanol production, opening the gateway to a myriad of applications, including sustainable transport fuels, packaging materials, apparel, and cosmetic fragrances. The advanced ethanol will be jointly marketed by ArcelorMittal and LanzaTech under the Carbalyst® brand name.
The Steelanol plant, boasting an annual production capacity of 80 million liters of advanced ethanol, is set to meet approximately half of Belgium's current demand. By achieving this feat, the facility is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions from the Ghent plant by an estimated 125,000 tonnes annually, aligning with the EU's ambitious goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by the end of the decade.
Jennifer Holmgren, CEO of LanzaTech, says the collaborative efforts between LanzaTech, ArcelorMittal, Primetals, and E4Tech, supported by CINEA, have paved the way for a new circular carbon economy in Europe. This endeavor represents a pioneering step toward displacing fossil carbon and realizing the potential of carbon capture and utilization at an industrial scale. The funding for the commercial Steelanol facility was obtained from various sources, including the Flemish government, the Belgian federal government, and the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program. Additionally, the European Investment Bank provided financial support through a loan. The Steelanol facility is slated to reach full operational capacity by the end of the year, further solidifying the partnership's commitment to driving sustainable innovation and decarbonizing the steel industry.
BioMADE to Establish Bioindustrial Manufacturing in Minnesota
The investment builds upon federal initiatives supporting biomanufacturing priorities outlined by Congress and the Biden administration. As part of these efforts, Congress allocated $300 million through the FY23 Consolidated Appropriations Act to support pilot-scale bioindustrial manufacturing infrastructure throughout the country.
BioMADE's multi-year effort will establish a national network of pilot-scale infrastructure, starting with the launch of the facility in Minnesota. The development of this infrastructure is critical to transitioning from laboratory research to large-scale commercial production, thereby preventing American companies from moving their manufacturing operations overseas. The potential impact of this initiative on Minnesota's economy and workforce is extensive. The investment in infrastructure, technology, and workforce development will create a multitude of job opportunities in rural and urban communities. From construction to transportation services and agricultural feedstock processing, the bioindustrial manufacturing expansion will lead to far-reaching career pathways and bolster various industries.
UPSIDE Foods Receives USDA Label Approval, Paving the Way for Commercialization of Cultivated Meat
As a cultivated meat product grown directly from real animal cells, UPSIDE's Chicken adheres to the same labeling requirements as conventionally-produced meat products. The company has successfully demonstrated full compliance with all pre-market requirements for labeling, positioning it to begin commercial production and sales as soon as the GOI is granted by USDA. After passing USDA inspection, UPSIDE's chicken will proudly display the USDA mark of inspection on its packaging.
Dr. Uma Valeti, CEO and Founder of UPSIDE Foods, expressed the significance of the USDA's label approval, stating, “The USDA's approval of our label marks a major step forward towards our goal of creating a more humane and sustainable food system. We're excited to continue working with the USDA to achieve our next milestone: a Grant of Inspection (GOI) for our facility. Obtaining the USDA's GOI will clear the way for commercial production and sales and allow us to bring our delicious UPSIDE chicken to consumers for the first time.”
Following the final regulatory clearance, UPSIDE Foods will launch its cultivated chicken in limited quantities through select restaurant partners, starting with Chef Dominique Crenn's renowned three-Michelin star restaurant, Bar Crenn, in San Francisco. Details regarding the launch will be shared at a later date, including information on how consumers can be among the first to experience UPSIDE's innovative cultivated chicken.
AFYREN NEOXY Plant Shows Significant Progress in Production Operations, Delivering First Lots
Over the past few weeks, operations at the plant achieved the production of several metric tons of product, and the first lots have been successfully delivered. AFYREN had previously announced commercial commitments for 75% of AFYREN NEOXY's annual acid production and 100% of the fertilizer, representing cumulative sales exceeding €165 million, projected over the upcoming financial years.
AFYREN's dedicated teams are continually working to enhance operational reliability, aiming to achieve continuous production by autumn 2023. The company plans to gradually scale up production to reach a capacity of 16,000 tons of carboxylic acids annually, generating total annual sales of approximately €35 million (including fertilizer sales). AFYREN aims to achieve a current production EBITDA margin of 25% for this plant at full capacity. The break-even point (positive current production EBITDA margin) for AFYREN NEOXY is expected by the end of 2023, based on current production and ramp-up estimates.
“The production and delivery of the first lots of biobased organic acids from the AFYREN NEOXY plant marks an important stage in the industrial start-up of this first-of-its-kind plant,” Nicolas Sordet, CEO of AFYREN, said. “These significant achievements are the fruit of the highly motivated AFYREN and AFYREN NEOXY teams, whose commitment I salute. I would also like to thank our customers for their unfailing support for our innovative project. We will now continue to ramp up our production to meet the expectations of our customers. Faced with growing demand from manufacturers for rapidly available biobased alternatives, we are working in parallel to increase our production capacity, particularly internationally. More than ever, we are motivated to make a low-carbon and circular industry possible by providing biobased solutions built with our partners to benefit the environment.”
RYAM Breaks Ground on 2G Bioethanol Plant in Tartas, France
RYAM, known for its biomaterials technology, is leveraging its wood-based feedstock to produce second-generation (2G) bioethanol, a sustainable fuel with a carbon footprint ninety percent smaller than fossil fuel-based gasoline. The plant's bioethanol is expected to fulfill the clean and renewable energy needs of petrochemical companies in the European market, making a significant contribution to reducing carbon emissions.
“With the successful development of second-generation bioethanol products, RYAM is taking an important step toward achieving our BioFuture and promoting a more sustainable world,” stated De Lyle Bloomquist, President and CEO of RYAM. “The strong demand for this innovative, renewable biofuel provides another example of how we can leverage our existing plants and knowledge of cellulose chemistry to provide innovative, biobased solutions.”
The new bioethanol plant will utilize residual sugars from existing biomaterials refinement processes, converting them into 2G bioethanol. This circularity approach will enhance the Tartas plant's operations, ensuring a significant portion of RYAM's sustainably sourced trees will be used for higher-value commercial end uses. “Second-generation bioethanol is about more than just introducing a new product pipeline. 2G bioethanol represents RYAM's largest investment to date towards its more sustainable BioFuture,” said Christian Ribeyrolle, Head of Biomaterials at RYAM. “In collaboration with our customer, our 2G bioethanol provides a green biofuel alternative for Europe's gasoline market and helps combat climate change by eliminating approximately 25,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually.”
The new facility is designed to produce up to 21 million liters of bioethanol and is expected to begin commercial operation in the first half of 2024. The plant has received ISCC EU certification, adhering to the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II). RYAM has also secured a long-term off-take (sales) agreement with a major international petrochemicals company to purchase the 2G bioethanol and has financed a significant portion of the investment through low-cost green loans.
ARBIOM Consortium Secures €14 Million Funding for SYLPLANT Project in France
“This factory paves the way to Arbiom's industrial deployment. It will bring 10,000 tons/year of alternative, highly nutritional, and sustainable protein to the market to answer the future food needs,” stated Marc CHEVREL, CEO of Arbiom.
Over the next three years, the SYLPLANT consortium will focus on constructing and operating Arbiom's first plant in France, with a target production capacity of 10,000 tons per year of the ingredient; validating the use of SylPro® in feed applications, including aquafeed and petfood, and gathering consumer insights; and developing the next generation of foods, such as cheese analogs, meat-analogs, and specialized nutrition products, using Arbiom's innovative ingredient.
AMYRIS Undergoes CEO Transition and Global Workforce Reduction
Geoffrey Duyk, Board Chair of Amyris, acknowledged John Melo's dedicated leadership, which played a pivotal role in the development of Amyris' Lab-to-Market technology platform and its diverse portfolio of consumer brands over the last 16 years. He expressed the board's utmost confidence in Han Kieftenbeld's capability to steer Amyris as the Interim Chief Executive Officer during this critical period of transformation.
Amyris recently enlisted the support of PricewaterhouseCoopers' Business Recovery Services unit to guide its transformation initiatives. As part of this process, the company aims to execute Fit-to-Win cost actions, with a target of approximately $250 million. This includes optimizing the costs of goods sold, reducing operating expenses, and streamlining the business portfolio. The current workforce reduction decision is a challenging one, as it involves parting ways with certain employees. The company expressed its gratitude to the departing staff for their dedication and contributions to Amyris.
Han Kieftenbeld, Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Amyris, appreciated the board's trust in him to lead the company through this transitional phase. He affirmed his commitment to work closely with the leadership team and colleagues worldwide to chart a course towards profitable growth and sustained cash generation. “Amyris remains resolute in its mission to drive sustainable practices and innovation, navigating through these changes as it continues to create a positive impact on the global consumption landscape,” the company said.
Casterra Agrees on Framework Agreement with Leading Oil and Gas Company for Sustainable Biofuel Production
Casterra's proprietary high-yield, high-oil castor seed varieties have been specifically optimized for biofuel production, supporting the expansion of the sustainable energy market. With the global biodiesel market estimated at around $92 billion in 2021 and projected to reach approximately $190 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 8.33% from 2022-2030, Casterra's innovative biofuel solutions hold significant potential for meeting the increasing demand for plant oil.
Biofuels present a promising alternative to traditional petrochemical fuels, offering a renewable and biodegradable option with substantially reduced environmental impact. Castor, in particular, stands out as an exceptional biofuel candidate due to its carbon-neutral properties, with combustion emissions closely matching the carbon dioxide absorbed during the plant's growth phase. Additionally, castor cultivation can occur on marginal lands in semi-arid to arid conditions without interfering with edible crop production.
Leveraging Evogene's cutting-edge computational biology technologies, Casterra has been at the forefront of developing proprietary high-yield castor varieties. Utilizing Evogene's GeneRator AI tech engine, advanced computational AI capabilities, and exclusive plant genomic databases, Casterra has unlocked the potential to produce castor varieties with exceptional yields and high oil content, setting new standards within the biofuel industry.
UPM Biochemicals and VAUDE Collaborate to Create Sustainable Outdoor Apparel from Biobased Chemicals
The key component in traditional polyester production is monoethylene glycol (MEG), typically sourced from crude oil. In UPM and VAUDE's process, this ingredient will be fully substituted with a new bio-monoethylene glycol called BioPura™, developed by UPM. BioPura™ serves as a drop-in solution, easily integrated into existing polyester manufacturing processes, as it is identical to the currently used MEG at a molecular level.
UPM is investing 750 million Euros to build the world's first industry-scale biorefinery in Leuna, Germany. The biorefinery will convert sustainably sourced, certified hardwood into next-generation biochemicals, facilitating the crucial shift away from fossil-based to renewable materials across various industries. Expected to produce 220,000 tonnes annually, the biorefinery is set to commence operations by the end of 2023.
Origin Materials Commences Startup of World's First Commercial CMF Plant, Origin 1
Origin 1 will serve as a supplier of intermediate chemicals and materials to various industries, spanning clothing, textiles, plastics, packaging, automotive parts, tires, carpeting, toys, fuels, and more, with a staggering addressable market worth approximately $1 trillion. The facility significantly expands Origin's technology platform's capabilities in converting sustainable wood residues into versatile intermediate chemicals. CMF, the key chemical building-block produced by the plant, possesses vast potential in manufacturing various downstream products, including para-xylene, a precursor to PET plastic, and FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid), utilized in sustainable products like the next-generation polymer PEF (polyethylene furanoate). Additionally, the plant will produce HTC, known for its applications in creating sustainable carbon black for automotive tires.
Origin 1 will operate to meet customer demand for qualification and sampling purposes. It will play a vital role in developing higher-value products and applications for CMF, HTC, and other co-products. These high-value items are slated for production and sale on a global scale in future plants, including Origin 2, Origin 3, and potentially licensed facilities.
Avantium and SCG Chemicals Collaborate to Advance CO2-Based Polymers into Pilot Phase
The partnership between Avantium and SCGC commenced early in 2023, focusing on the assessment of PLGA. Avantium produced various PLGA samples, which were thoroughly evaluated at SCGC's Norner AS facility. Encouraged by the results, both parties have agreed to take the next stride in their collaboration and formalize a Joint Development Agreement. This agreement outlines their intention to continue evaluating PLGA, with the ultimate aim of scaling up glycolic acid monomer and PLGA polyester production within the next two years at a pilot plant.
Dr. Suracha Udomsak, Chief Innovation Officer and Executive Vice President at SCGC, stated, “SCGC is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2030. To achieve this, SCGC is exploring not only recycling and reducing plastic use but also investing in innovative sustainable solutions. After assessing PLGA samples over the past months, we are impressed with the sustainability and performance attributes of this innovative material. We eagerly look forward to collaborating with Avantium in the years ahead.”
Avantium's PEF Bioplastic Receives Critical Guidance Recognition from the Association of Plastic Recyclers
Avantium's YXY® Technology facilitates the production of FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid), a pivotal building block for creating 100% plant-based and recyclable PEF plastic material. PEF exhibits a compelling blend of sustainability and performance attributes, making it suitable for diverse applications, including bottles, packaging, and textiles. The company is actively constructing the world's first commercial FDCA facility in Delfzijl, the Netherlands, with plans for it to become operational in 2024, paving the way for the commercial launch of PEF. PEF can be employed in fully plant-based monolayer PEF bottles, but its advantages are particularly pronounced when combined with PET (polyethylene terephthalate). In the context of multilayer PET bottles, PEF serves as an effective barrier material, ensuring the required shelf life when a single PET layer cannot suffice. Currently, many multilayer PET bottles incorporate nylon as a barrier, which can pose recycling challenges within the PET recycling stream. PEF's excellent barrier properties, along with its similarity to PET, make it an ideal alternative, having minimal impact on the recycling process.
For the APR Critical Guidance testing in the US, multilayer PET/PEF bottles containing 7 wt% and 10 wt% of PEF underwent evaluation by a third-party (Plastics Forming Enterprises LLC) and were subsequently reviewed by an independent committee, appointed according to the APR Recognition Operating Procedures. Avantium demonstrated the compatibility of these bottles with standard PET recycling practices without compromising the physical properties of the recycled PET. As a result, it was confirmed that both types of multilayer PET/PEF bottles meet or surpass the most rigorous test conditions and strictest APR Critical Guidance criteria.
IFF Pioneers Designed Enzymatic Biomaterials Technology Platform to Deliver Sustainable Biopolymers
Wayne Ashton, VP of Home and Personal Care at IFF, emphasized the transformative nature of DEB technology, stating, “With the DEB technology platform, scientists can now build the functions of petroleum-based polymers into biopolymer materials directly – customizing and fine-tuning polysaccharides to enable sustainable performance enhancements within the chosen application. From my perspective, this is one of the most innovative technology platforms to launch industry-wide in the last 15 years.”
While biomaterials derived from renewable raw materials are increasingly favored for their sustainability, they have historically faced limitations in terms of performance compared to fossil-based counterparts. IFF's DEB technology overcomes these challenges by utilizing advanced biotechnology to create structurally diverse polysaccharides resembling those found in nature. These biomaterials are produced at scale with the precision and consistency typically associated with traditional industrial polymers. Using only plant-based sugars, water, and enzymes, DEB technology offers a versatile range of materials with glycosidic linkage control, designed-in molecular weights, and morphology.
Liberation Labs Breaks Ground on First Precision Fermentation Biomanufacturing Facility
Governor Eric Holcomb welcomed Liberation Labs to Indiana, highlighting the company's alignment with the state's robust agriculture and manufacturing sectors. He expressed enthusiasm for the potential of innovative technologies like those developed by Liberation Labs to create quality jobs and opportunities for the state's workforce. The governor pledged full support to the company's growth and its positive impact on Indiana's economic landscape. With this groundbreaking initiative, Liberation Labs positions itself as a key player in advancing bioproducts and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Technip Energies Acquires Processium to Accelerate Net Zero Trajectory
Processium operates a modern innovation center, offering process development services that accelerate and de-risk the introduction of new technologies for clients ranging from startups to large industrial companies. The integration with Technip Energies is expected to create unique synergies, providing clients with unparalleled support for new process development and generating added value for both companies. The strategic acquisition aligns with Technip Energies' commitment to driving the energy transition and meeting the evolving needs of a fast-changing market. With Processium's expertise bolstering its ranks, Technip Energies is well-positioned to advance its proprietary technologies in the sustainable chemicals sector.
Origin Materials and Sustainea Form Strategic Alliance
Sustainea has also signed two, substantial multi-year agreements to secure a steady supply of renewable chemicals from Origin Materials. These include bio-based PTA and bio-based FDCA, two key components vital for a wide array of applications spanning PET polyester packaging, textiles, plastics, automotive components, tires, and beyond. The bio-based PTA serves as a cornerstone feedstock, while the bio-based FDCA underpins a spectrum of commercial utilities such as surfactants, epoxy resins, and the innovative PEF polymer (polyethylene furanoate).
Origin Materials Co-CEO, Rich Riley, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the significance of teaming up with Sustainea, a joint venture between
Gustavo Sergi, CEO of Sustainea, expressed his excitement regarding the partnership, asserting that this collaboration with Origin marks a pivotal stride toward a low-carbon future. “Bringing to the market bioMEG and bioPET has always been our ambition and the partnership with Origin represents an important step towards this goal,” Sergi remarked. He further emphasized the urgency of their mission, as the polyester and PET markets expand by approximately 3.5 million tons annually. He emphasized that their bioMEG and bioPET offerings are not only bio-based but also entirely recyclable, further contributing to a circular economy and a reduction in CO2 emissions.
Headquartered in West Sacramento, Origin Materials has carved its niche as a global leader in carbon-negative materials, pioneering a transformative platform that converts carbon derived from sustainable wood residues into diverse usable products, all the while sequestering carbon. This innovation holds the potential to reshape the production of numerous end products, spanning from textiles, plastics, and packaging to fuels, car parts, and beyond. Sustainea Bioglycols envisions the construction of three industrial plants with an annual production capacity of 700,000 tons of bio-based MEG, with the first plant scheduled for launch in 2027.