In Belgium, a bio-based surfactant startup AmphiStar has raised $13.5 million. The funding, which included a $10.8 million equity investment and $2.7 million grant from European Innovation Council, pushes AmphiStar’s total funding to over $26 million. Earlier backers include CBE-JU initiatives, regional grants, and a pre-series A round involving ECBF, Qbic, and PMV. The company’s […]
In Germany, luxury car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz has partnered with New Jersey biodesign firm Moden Meadow to develop a next-generation leather alternative for its CONCEPT AMG GT XX electric concept car. The material in question, called INNOVERA™, is made from a blend of plant-based proteins, biopolymers, and chemically recycled AMG GT3 racing tires. It achieves over […]
In France, Dutch fashion designer Iris van Herpen has unveiled a dress embedded with 125 million bioluminescent algae at Paris Haute Couture Week 2025. T Co-created with biodesigner Christopher Bellamy of Bio Crafted, the material behind the luminous effect is Pyrocystis fusiformis, a species of microalgae known for its natural ability to emit light. To […]
In London, sustainable fashion pioneer Stella McCartney has unveiled a new version of its S-Wave sneakers, featuring soles made entirely from BioCir Flex, a castor-oil based bioplastic developed by materials startup Balena. Unlike traditional plastic soles, this plant-based material is fully compostable or recyclable, offering a sustainable alternative without sacrificing durability. The soles are dyed […]
In Sweden, a boho label owned by fast-fashion giant H&M has introduced an “ocean-inspired” line made with seaweed-based fibers from Keel Labs. Dubbed Kelsun, the fiber is being used by & Other Stories’ designer Frida Billegren in apparel that highlight the “fluid beauty” of ocean creatures such as sea anemones. “We continuously seek new technologies and […]
In California, a team at University of California, Irvine have developed a method to convert human urine into hydroxyapatite, a mineral naturally found in bones and teeth. The innovation could offer a sustainable, low-cost source of materials for medical implants and industrial applications. The work, which is published in a recent issue of Nature Communications, […]
In Israel, tech startup Algocell has secured $2.8 million in pre-seed funding to accelerate development of its AI-driven, digital twin platform for cell-based manufacturing. Algocell’s machine learning platform simulates and optimizes biological processes, helping companies scale from lab experiments to commercial production more efficiently. The technology is designed to address persistent challenges in biomanufacturing, such […]
In France, Lallemand Bio-Ingredients has completed its acquisition of Solyve, a French enzyme producer known for its expertise in solid-state fermentation and strong position in food and beverages. Solyve, formerly known as Lyven S.A., was founded in 1989 and operates a modern production facility in Normandy. It specializes in high-performance enzymes used in winemaking, juice […]
In Belgium, The European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic) is calling on the European Union to transform its upcoming Bioeconomy Strategy into a comprehensive industrial strategy. Cefic argues that the bioeconomy holds untapped potential to boost Europe’s industrial competitiveness, enhance circularity, and secure access to sustainable resources. In a newly released position paper, Cefic outlines a […]
In Sweden, Absolut Vodka has inked a new partnership with start-up Blue Ocean Closures to increase the use of biodegradable materials in its packaging. According to Drinks Retailing, Absolut and Blue Ocean Closures have developed a cap out of 95% Forest Stewardship Council-certified fibers, with a thin top seal barrier made of plastic. The innovation […]
