In Boston, Harvard scientists have successfully grown algae in Mars-like conditions, raising hopes that astronauts could have a source of building materials to create shelters. Since launching heavy cargo to Mars is prohibitively expensive and logistically complex, bringing microorganisms that can grow and produce essential materials on-site is far more viable than relying on tons […]
In Belgium, Ontex Group NV has introduced diapers made with biobased superabsorbent polymers. This new material will gradually and incrementally replace virgin fossil-based plastic SAP in the core absorbent component, helping lower the carbon footprint of the product while maintaining performance. This step aligns with Ontex’s commitment to embedding good, scalable sustainability practices into every […]
In Denmark, precision fermentation firm 21st.BIOhas launched a development program for bovine alpha-lactalbumin (α-lac) after exclusively licensing the high-yield microbial strain from Novonesis. Alpha-lactalbumin is a highly functional milk protein rich in essential amino acids. It is easy to digest and is linked to immune and cognitive development benefits. Bovine α-lac is currently used in […]
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 […]
