Author Archive: Rebecca Gendron

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Algae-based batteries could replace disposables

Algae-based batteries could replace disposables

July 27, 2026 |

In the United Kingdom, biodesigner Lucia Giron and the University of Cambridge’s Department of Biochemistry have created a series of algae-based battery prototypes.  A specialized semi-permeable membrane enables gas exchange while limiting evaporation, while a filament-like electrode structure provides a textured surface for algae to attach and integrate, bringing the biological and electrical components into […]

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Shell game: Forbo turns cocoa waste into sustainable flooring

Shell game: Forbo turns cocoa waste into sustainable flooring

July 27, 2026 |

In Switzerland, flooring manufacturer Forbo is converting agricultural waste into a renewable flooring solution with Marmoleum Cocoa, a version of its Marmoleum flooring that incorporates discarded cocoa shells from cacao production. Marmoleum Cocoa is made with up to 98% natural raw materials, including linseed oil, wood flour, jute, and reclaimed cocoa shells sourced through Netherlands-based […]

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Estonia plants seeds for synbio boom

Estonia plants seeds for synbio boom

July 27, 2026 |

In Estonia, state-owned applied research center and central metrology authority Metrosert has signed a €2 million (US$1.14 million) contract with construction company Savekate OÜ to establish a synthetic biology pilot plant. The pilot facility will give biotechnology companies a previously unavailable opportunity to test and develop new production processes before making major industrial investments, helping […]

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Coconut cellulose takes on plastic

Coconut cellulose takes on plastic

July 27, 2026 |

In Indonesia, researchers at Hasanuddin University researchers have developed a biodegradable multilayer polylactic acid film reinforced with coconut water-derived cellulose and butylated hydroxytoluene. The team believes its oxygen-scavenging and mechanical properties make it a viable alternative for most plastic packaging.  The scientists produced bacterial cellulose by fermenting coconut water using a process similar to that […]

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Soccer star Haaland tees off at sea with fish food golf balls

Soccer star Haaland tees off at sea with fish food golf balls

July 20, 2026 |

In Italy, World Cup standout Erling Haaland has posted himself on social media engaging in some well-deserved, post-tournament R&R. The Norwegian star videoed himself hitting golf balls off a yacht in the Mediterranean—and later clarified to curious fans that the balls were biodegradable.  Haaland said on Snapchat that the golf balls actually dissolve in the […]

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Melt&Marble launches precision-fermented lipid for personal care

Melt&Marble launches precision-fermented lipid for personal care

July 20, 2026 |

In Sweden, precision fermentation company Melt&Marble has launched Marble7®, its first precision-fermented lipid ingredient for the personal care market. The lipid,  which debuted at in-cosmetics Korea last week, is a 3-in-1 bioactive designed for use in skincare, makeup and hair care formulations. It offers a biomimetic skin lipid profile and is rich in Omega-7 and other […]

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IFF sells botanical extracts to SuanNutra

IFF sells botanical extracts to SuanNutra

July 20, 2026 |

In New York, flavors, fragrances, and health and biosciences giant IFF has entered into an agreement with SuanNutra, a Carbyne Equity Partners portfolio company and global provider of science-backed branded and functional ingredients, to sell its portfolio of botanical extracts, vitamins and minerals, and food enhancement activities, including its range of natural colors and antioxidants […]

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EU invests $6.3M into AI-driven cocoa cell culture project

EU invests $6.3M into AI-driven cocoa cell culture project

July 20, 2026 |

In Europe, the EU is investing €5.5 million ($6.3 million) in a research consortium looking to produce cocoa more sustainably by using cell culture. COCO-AI, short for “AI-Optimised Plant Cell Culture Platform for Sustainable Production of Secondary Metabolites, Demonstrated with Cocoa” is using AI to analyze biological data and optimize plant cell growth, helping researchers create […]

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MycoTechnology, Adorvia Biotechnology partner on sugar reduction solution

MycoTechnology, Adorvia Biotechnology partner on sugar reduction solution

July 20, 2026 |

In Colorado, fungal fermentation firm MycoTechnology and stevia supplier Adorvia Biotechnology are collaborating to help food and beverage manufacturers create better-tasting, lower-sugar products.  The partnership pairs MycoTechnology’s innovation, Zukora™ Honey Truffle Sweet Protein, with Adorvia’s proprietary Reb M stevia, giving formulators a new tool for natural sugar reduction and optimized, low-calorie and no calorie sweetener […]

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Dyadic unveils new industrial enzyme program

Dyadic unveils new industrial enzyme program

July 20, 2026 |

In Florida, biotechnology company Dyadic International has expanded its bio-industrial pipeline with a new proprietary enzyme program focused on advanced cellulose processing. The initiative builds on the commercialization of EN3ZYME™, Dyadic’s first proprietary bio-industrial enzyme product developed in collaboration with Fermbox Bio. The new program leverages Dyadic’s Dapibus™ microbial expression platform to develop enzymes for […]

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