TechCrunch Startup News From pond scum to premium skincare?
Dec 2, 2024
Manuel Rios, Co-founder of Deep Blue Biotech and former VP of sustainable design at Unilever, dives into the future of eco-friendly skincare. He reveals how his startup harnesses genetically engineered cyanobacteria to revolutionize chemical production. The discussion highlights the environmental benefits of sustainable biomanufacturing, particularly in creating hyaluronic acid for beauty products. Rios also shares insights on their innovative strategies, including modular photobioreactors, and the significant commercial potential for these green alternatives.
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Green Chemicals
- Deep Blue Biotech aims to decarbonize chemical production using photosynthesis.
- Their method uses engineered microorganisms, offering a greener alternative to fossil fuels.
Cost Parity
- Deep Blue Biotech claims cost parity with traditional methods.
- Their microorganisms require only cheap ingredients like light, water, and CO2.
Cyanobacteria
- Deep Blue Biotech uses genetically modified cyanobacteria (blue-green algae).
- This process turns pond scum into microscopic factories for green chemicals.