In Washington, DC, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, in partnership with consulting firm Kearney, has released a report assessing the significant economic impact of the US bioeconomy. The report, entitled “Projected Impact and Growth of a Fully Unleashed Bioeconomy: The Value of Food, Agriculture, and Manufacturing Biotechnology”, highlights how this rapidly expanding sector is driving continued […]
In Amsterdam, Built by Nature has launched its 2025 global prize for real-world applications of the Principles for Responsible Timber Construction in predominantly timber buildings. On April 7, the grant-funding network will open applications for completed and in-use projects, including new builds, renovations, and significant extensions. Winning buildings will be announced in October and showcased […]
In New Jersey, Karmuel Young has used Modern Meadow’s biomaterial in his Sustasia Fashion Prize submission. Specifically, Young used Modern Meadow’s INNOVERA, formerly known as BIO-VERA, in his four-in-one jumpsuit that can transition from a jumpsuit to a long coat, short jacket and pants. The renewable material is engineered to replicate the look and feel […]
In New York, specialty chemical companies IFF and Kemira have formed a joint venture to produce biobased materials at commercial scale production. Dubbed Alpha Bio, the €130 million (US$140 million) will begin converting up to 44,000 MT of plant sugars to bioproducts in late 2027. Targeted products include high-performance biopolymers for use in various applications, […]
In Brazil, a São Paulo-based biotech startup is converting coffee waste into cocoa substitute in an effort to address shortages, high prices, and large environmental footprint of chocolate production. Cellva Ingredients—formerly a cultivated pork startup—claims its CoffeeCoa can replace up to 70% of cocoa in many applications. “Coffee and cocoa have intrinsically similar notes and […]
In New York, contemporary artist Daniel Arsham has crafted ceramic poker chips and linen playing cards to explore the game’s “duality,” in that it has deep history and tradition but is continually evolving. The World Poker Tour will release one hundred collectible sets ahead of its world championship. “The collaboration was an opportunity to push […]
In New York, jewelry brand Mo.Na Gems is using potato starch-based plastics to mimic gemstones and, reportedly, gaining a following in the New York fashion scene. The material, formulated in 2021 by co-founders Mia Dunn and Mecca McDonald in their Johns Hopkins dorm, breaks down in home composters in a matter of weeks, according to […]
In California, Shiru, an AI-powered ingredient discovery firm, and GreenLab, a pioneer in plant-based protein expression, have partnered to commercialize novel food proteins using GreenLab’s proprietary corn expression system. The collaboration expands Shiru’s manufacturing capabilities, complementing discovery capabilities with a high-yield, scalable manufacturing platform that extends beyond microbial and precision fermentation. This partnership enables a […]
In Australia, startup Ecopha is pioneering the use of pongamia oil from a tree native to Australia, India and Southeast Asia to produce the bioplastic polyhydroxyalkanoate. The pongamia tree is known for flourishing in arid and challenging climates with little need for irrigation, fertilizers, or pesticides. “Innovation is at the heart of Ecopha’s mission to […]
In Arizona, Nova Farms has collaborated with BioBond Adhesives to implement a biobased protective coating in its Phoenix, Arizona, food processing facility. Made from plant-based ingredients, BioBond’s protective coating is designed to guard against mold, bacteria, and other contaminants. Unlike traditional coatings, it contains no microplastics. The partnership is part of Nova Farms’ broader efforts […]
