The Blooming Factories of the Future
Algae is the queen of sustainability. Emerging technology is transforming this diverse group of photosynthetic organisms into a robust, sustainable production platform for multiple applications across various markets. As a Fall Associate and UC Davis IIFH Fellow, I spent part of my three months working with Better Ventures diving into the colorful world of algae.
In the report linked below, we explore some of the science behind these amazing organisms, discuss emerging trends in the space, and highlight a number of companies doing exciting work with algae. We also probe into three emerging areas that we believe are ripe for investment opportunities in the coming years: biomaterials, pigments, and food.
Here are some key takeaways from our research:
- After the boom and bust cycle of algae-based biofuels, Algae 2.0 is here with startups focused on burgeoning applications that leverage the wide variety of value-added components algae innately offer such as proteins, pigments, and fatty acids.
- These startups benefit from global algae cultivation facilities, years of diverse algae research, and growing consumer preferences for environmentally friendly products.
- Algae, which is sustainable and biodegradable, is an exciting feedstock for biomaterials and provides inspiration for innovative materials with novel properties. Startups are perfecting incorporating algae into bioplastics and eco fibers.
- As companies embrace more natural products based on evolving consumer trends, the diverse colors of algae present remarkable opportunities for use as colorants and dyes for the food, packaging, and textile industries.
- Algae are promising feedstocks for sustainable, carbon-neutral, plant-based foods. Startups and established companies alike are currently probing how to best assimilate their chosen algae into the market.
Read the full article here for more information on the recent bloom of algae startups!
