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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.
08:19

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Quick takeaways

  • Deep Blue Biotech is revolutionizing chemical production by utilizing photosynthesis-based processes to create sustainable and cost-effective alternatives.
  • Targeting the beauty industry, the startup aims to produce hyaluronic acid to improve market acceptance of green chemicals and expand into other sectors.

Deep dives

Sustainable Chemical Production Through Biomanufacturing

Deep Blue Biotech focuses on transforming the chemical manufacturing industry by utilizing a photosynthesis-based biomanufacturing process, aiming for sustainable production methods that significantly reduce carbon emissions. The startup leverages genetically engineered cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, which only require inexpensive resources like light, water, and CO2 to produce chemicals efficiently. This approach allows Deep Blue Biotech to not only meet sustainability goals but also to achieve cost parity with conventional fossil fuel-based chemical production methods. By prioritizing the development of high-efficacy and sustainable chemicals, the company expects to overcome past limitations that hindered the acceptance of green chemicals in the market, offering products that perform well while being environmentally friendly.

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