CleanTech Talk — EVs, Solar, Batteries, AI, Tesla Using Biotechnology to Clean Up Mining, PFAS — Allonnia
Sep 22, 2025
Nicole Richards, CEO of Allonnia and a chemical engineer, shares her insights on using biotechnology to tackle environmental challenges. She discusses the innovative solutions Alonnia is developing for mining remediation and the removal of PFAS chemicals, often termed 'forever chemicals.' Nicole highlights their nature-inspired approaches, including a groundbreaking chemical-free foam solution for PFAS. The conversation reveals how biotechnology can reshape industries and pave the way to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
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Biology For Industrial Transformation
- Alonnia applies synthetic-biology approaches to heavy industry problems like mining and water treatment.
- Nicole Richards sees biology as an underused tool that can transform industrial processes for sustainability.
Mining Needs A Low‑Carbon Rethink
- Mining demand will surge while ore grades decline, raising environmental and emissions challenges.
- Richards argues we must rethink extraction to meet demand with net‑zero or neutral carbon impacts.
Developing A Chemical‑Free PFAS Solution
- Alonnia developed a product that selectively removes PFAS from water using no media and no chemicals.
- Richards highlights the product as an example of creating circular, less‑linear environmental solutions.