Decarbonizing our economies in the fight against climate change requires a complete overhaul of production processes to make them as sustainable as possible. U.K. startup Deep Blue BioTech is focusing on greening chemicals, which are used in a variety of products.
Founded in May 2023, Deep Blue BioTech is developing a business around a photosynthesis-based form of biomanufacturing to produce chemicals in a more environmentally friendly way than traditional methods like refining fossil fuels.
The startup claims its process can achieve cost parity with conventional chemical production by using a genetically engineered microorganism that requires basic ingredients like light, water, and CO2. This is a contrast to precision fermentation, another microbe-based method that relies on costlier feedstock.
Using genetic engineering and computational modeling, Deep Blue BioTech is working with cyanobacteria, often called blue-green algae, to transform them into microscopic production factories for green chemicals. The process is “net-positive” in terms of carbon emissions as cyanobacteria consume CO2 during photosynthesis.
The startup aims to create a new generation of sustainable and functional green chemicals, addressing the limitations of previous attempts. They are starting by producing hyaluronic acid for skincare products and cosmetic treatments. The team is considering expanding into the textile industry for more eco-friendly fabric dyes.
Deep Blue BioTech recently secured an $800,000 pre-seed funding round to develop a commercial MVP and pursue partnerships for their green chemicals. They are leveraging computational modeling to identify cost-effective chemicals for their production method. The startup is currently targeting the beauty and cosmetics sector, with plans to scale up operations in the future with a modular production process using photobioreactors.
Competing companies like Microphyt and Bondi Bio are also working with algae and cyanobacteria, respectively, but Deep Blue BioTech believes their focus and approach are distinct. By prioritizing sustainability, functionality, and cost-effectiveness, the startup aims to make a significant impact in the industry.
