What's Happening?
Novonesis, a Danish firm specializing in biosolutions, is actively seeking external innovations to enhance its portfolio in food and agriculture. At the Future Food-Tech summit in London, Timothy Wallace, head of scouting and assessment, discussed the company's strategy to support startups in biomanufacturing. Novonesis collaborates with 21st.BIO to help startups scale their biosolutions, addressing challenges such as molecule discovery, expression, and regulatory approval. The firm is also part of a consortium exploring the conversion of carbon dioxide into acetate, potentially providing low-cost proteins to low- and middle-income countries.
Why It's Important?
Novonesis' focus on external innovation highlights the growing importance of collaboration in the biotech industry. By supporting startups, the company aims to accelerate the development of sustainable solutions that meet industry and consumer needs. The initiative to convert carbon dioxide into acetate could revolutionize protein production, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional methods. This approach aligns with global sustainability goals and could have significant implications for food security and environmental impact.
Beyond the Headlines
The exploration of sustainable side streams in industrial processes by Novonesis could lead to higher-value products and reduce waste. Collaborations with companies like Carbios for plastic recycling and Saipem for carbon capture demonstrate Novonesis' commitment to leveraging biotechnology for environmental benefits. These partnerships could pave the way for innovative solutions that address global challenges in sustainability and resource management.