The collaboration aims to commercialize an alternative to palm kernel oil being scaled by Genomatica. PKO is a precursor to multiple products in the home and personal care markets, but widespread deforestation linked to the ubiquitous feedstock has spurred calls for alternatives. Initial research has shown that companies can reduce the carbon footprint of palm-derived ingredients by up to 50% with Genomatica’s plant-based alternative.
“As responsibly sourced palm oil and its derivatives will continue to be a critical feedstock to Kao, the venture will support Kao in manufacturing more sustainable, biotechnology-driven ingredients for use in home and personal care products and supplying palm oil alternatives derivatives to its business customers, and to increase the transparency and traceability of its supply chain,” Kao says in a press statement.