Latest news with #microorganisms
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Furniture brand shocks industry with futuristic innovation that destroys its own products: 'We wanted to get to the next level'
If self-cannibalizing furniture sounds far-fetched, think again: A new ingredient in plastic is making that a reality. After years of experimenting with sustainable alternatives to conventional plastic, high-end plastic furniture maker Heller has introduced an enzyme to accelerate the decomposition process. Fast Company reported on the development, which marks a revolutionary milestone for both the furniture industry and the future of plastic waste. The enzyme, which is mixed into the plastic in powdered form, essentially turns the plastic into something appetizing for microorganisms to eat, accelerating a naturally occurring process. It was developed by the research company Worry Free Plastics. Crucially for the indoor-outdoor furniture maker, the enzyme only activates when the furniture is in a zero-oxygen environment — such as a landfill, the ocean, or even soil. From day to day, it remains solid; in a zero-oxygen environment, according to the company, it will degrade in approximately five years. This is an incredible improvement on the typical decomposition of plastic, as a piece of plastic can take up to 500 years to degrade, per the United Nations. Even then, it just breaks down into microplastics and chemicals, contaminating the water and soil in its surroundings. When microorganisms process this plastic, the only byproduct is biogas and nutrient-rich soil — and it happens on a remarkably quick timeline. Worry Free Plastics estimates that its enzyme could help a plastic bottle degrade in approximately seven and a half years and a plastic bag in five. John Edelman, president and CEO of Heller, said that simply looking at recycled plastics wasn't enough to meet the company's environmental goals. "We wanted to get to the next level and become more sustainable," he said, per Fast Company. "How can we be good for the planet and create incredible design?" Even better for consumers, the new biodegradability won't change the price tag. "It's a drop-in technology," said Philip Myers, Worry Free Plastics co-founder. "It doesn't require them to change their equipment, their process — anything. It's plug and play." Heller introduced the enzyme to its production line in November, and the company expects the new products to completely replace old inventory in the coming months to years. "My goal is to do something that is sustainable and at the same price," Edelman said. "We actually achieved our goal of not just using recycled products, not just being recyclable, but going back to the earth." If self-destroying plastic isn't available, opting for plastic-free alternatives for everyday products is a great way to reduce your own plastic pollution and help create a cleaner world. Which of these factors would be your biggest motivator in buying eco-friendly furniture? Durable materials Chic design Lower price Not interested Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Associated Press
20-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Global Biosurfactants Market Report 2025-2035, with Profiles of 20+ Players including AGAE Technologies, AmphiStar, Biotensidion, Dispersa, Givaudan, Holiferm, Jeneil Biotec, Locus Ingredients & more
DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 20, 2025-- The 'Global Biosurfactants Market 2025-2035" report has been added to offering. The global biosurfactants market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing environmental concerns, stringent regulations on synthetic surfactants, and rising consumer demand for sustainable products. Biosurfactants - surface-active compounds produced by microorganisms - represent a significant advancement in green chemistry, offering biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternatives to petroleum-based surfactants across diverse industries. Glycolipids, particularly rhamnolipids and sophorolipids, dominate the market, owing to their versatile applications and relatively advanced production technologies. The household and personal care segment represents the largest application area, followed by industrial applications, food processing, and agriculture. The production technology landscape is evolving rapidly, with significant advancements in fermentation processes, genetic engineering of producer strains, and downstream processing techniques. These innovations are gradually addressing the historical challenges of high production costs and scalability limitations. The integration of waste streams and by-products as fermentation feedstocks is further enhancing the sustainability profile and economic viability of biosurfactant production. Key market drivers include the phasing out of harmful synthetic surfactants under various regulatory frameworks, growing consumer preference for bio-based products, expanding application scope in industries seeking sustainable solutions, and technological advancements reducing production costs. However, challenges persist, including still-higher production costs compared to synthetic alternatives, inconsistent raw material availability, and performance limitations in certain high-demand applications. The future outlook for the biosurfactants market remains exceptionally positive, with significant growth potential in emerging applications such as enhanced oil recovery, biomedical applications, nanotechnology, and advanced materials. The development of next-generation production platforms utilizing synthetic biology and continuous manufacturing approaches promises to further reduce costs and expand the commercial viability of biosurfactants across additional market segments. As sustainability becomes an increasingly critical factor in consumer and industrial purchasing decisions, biosurfactants are well-positioned to capture market share from conventional surfactants, representing one of the most promising segments within the broader green chemicals industry. The Global Biosurfactants Market 2025-2035 report provides an in-depth analysis of the rapidly evolving global biosurfactants market from 2025 to 2035. As environmental regulations tighten and consumer preferences shift toward sustainable alternatives, biosurfactants are emerging as critical replacements for traditional petroleum-based surfactants across diverse industries. This report explores how these microbially-produced, biodegradable surface-active compounds are reshaping markets from household products to advanced industrial applications, pharmaceutical developments, and environmental remediation. The report examines the transition from conventional glycolipids and lipopeptides to novel biosurfactant classes and custom-designed molecules, analyzing how improved fermentation processes, genetic engineering, and waste-derived feedstocks are revolutionizing production economics and expanding application potential. Key Report Highlights: The report comprehensively covers: Company Coverage Includes: For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. View source version on CONTACT: Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 KEYWORD: INDUSTRY KEYWORD: CHEMICALS/PLASTICS MANUFACTURING SOURCE: Research and Markets Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 05/20/2025 08:01 AM/DISC: 05/20/2025 08:01 AM
Gizmodo
19-05-2025
- Science
- Gizmodo
26 Unidentified Bacterial Species Detected in NASA Cleanroom
In space travel, it can often be the tiniest things that ruin a big mission. That's why attention to detail is key, particularly inside a cleanroom where spacecraft are put together and prepped for their rigorous journey through the cosmos. But even those meticulously regulated rooms can't keep some microorganisms out. In fact, some bacteria thrive in the stringent environment. A group of scientists at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, as well as other institutes in India and Saudi Arabia, discovered 26 previously unknown bacterial species in the cleanroom used to assemble the Phoenix spacecraft ahead of its launch in August 2007. The discovery, recently published in the journal Microbiome, highlights the potential risk posed by highly resilient microorganisms that could contaminate space missions or the planets they visit. For the study, the team of scientists sequenced 215 bacterial strains. Some of these were present before the Phoenix spacecraft arrived at its cleanroom on April 25, 2007, while others formed during the spacecraft's assembly and testing, and after it had been moved to the launchpad to begin its journey to Mars. Out of the 215 strains, the team identified 53 strains belonging to 26 new species. 'Our study aimed to understand the risk of extremophiles being transferred in space missions and to identify which microorganisms might survive the harsh conditions of space,' Alexandre Rosado, a researcher at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), and lead author of the study, said in a statement. 'This effort is pivotal for monitoring the risk of microbial contamination and safeguarding against unintentional colonization of exploring planets.' NASA cleanrooms are harsh environments for life, with carefully controlled temperature, humidity, and airflow to keep out dust and bacteria. The type of microorganisms that can survive in a cleanroom may also be equipped to make it in space. Many of the newly identified microorganisms that were growing in the NASA cleanroom were especially resilient against decontamination and radiation. The hardy bacteria carried a unique genetic defense system with traits like DNA repair, enhanced metabolism, and the ability to detoxify harmful molecules. These little guys are what Destiny's Child was singing about with their hit 'Survivor.' Aside from highlighting the potential impact of these bacteria in space, the new discovery could also have applications on Earth. 'Space travel provides an opportunity to study microorganisms that possess relevant stress-resistance genes,' Junia Schultz, a postdoctoral fellow at KAUST, and first author of the study, said in a statement. 'The genes identified in these newly discovered bacterial species could be engineered for applications in medicine, food preservation, and other industries.' NASA, it would seem, may also need to go back to the drawing board when it comes to its cleanroom design.
Associated Press
07-05-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Harnessing Microbial Power for More Sustainable Agriculture
Originally published by TriplePundit Soil may look like lifeless dirt, but it's very much alive. A handful of healthy soil can contain billions of microorganisms that break down organic matter and leave behind nutrients for plants in a symbiotic system called the soil food web. Indigo Ag and Groundwork BioAg aim to harness these natural processes to improve soil health and yields for farmers. The agriculture sector is transforming as growers look to manage changing weather patterns and feed a rising population while maintaining the health of soils and ecosystems. Two industry leaders — Indigo Ag and Groundwork BioAg — joined forces to accelerate the adoption of sustainable biological solutions for commercial farms. Their collaboration is centered on delivering a comprehensive biological solution designed to enhance soil health, improve crop resilience, and contribute to carbon sequestration in the fight to future-proof agriculture. We spoke with A.J. Kumar, Vice President of Sustainability Sciences at Indigo Ag, and Yossi Kofman, CEO of Groundwork BioAg, to learn more about their pioneering initiative and the potential impact on the future of agriculture. Harnessing the power of microbes and mycorrhizae Soil may look like lifeless dirt, but it's very much alive. A single handful of healthy soil can contain billions of microorganisms. These bacteria and fungi break down organic matter and leave behind nutrients for plants in a symbiotic system called the soil food web. Healthy soil absorbs more water and atmospheric carbon, building resistance against droughts and reducing global emissions. Healthier soils also grow more resilient crops with better yields, increasing profit for farmers. Indigo Ag and Groundwork BioAg aim to harness these natural processes to improve soil health and yields for farmers. In particular, their efforts combine Indigo's expertise in the use of microbes to improve soil and plant resiliency and Groundwork's innovations in mycorrhizae, or the mutually beneficial relationship between fungi and plant roots beneath the soil. 'The objective of our partnership is to bring the best biological product to market by combining the power of mycorrhizae with Indigo's microbial endophytes,' Kofman said. 'By integrating our unique expertise, we can offer a complete biological solution that increases resistance to environmental stressors, enhances nitrogen fixation, and reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers.' This breakthrough approach offers more than just improved soil fertility. It also has other significant environmental benefits — including increasing carbon sequestration and reducing emissions from nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers, key contributors to agricultural pollution. 'Microbes exist in communities in nature,' Kumar said of the relationship between bacteria and fungi within healthy soils. 'Indigo has a strong background in microbial endophyte collection, while Groundwork brings deep expertise in mycorrhizae. By working together, we are creating a holistic solution that provides farmers with more than just a single product. We're offering them an entire system to improve soil health and crop performance.' This collaboration supported by the BIRD Foundation aims to benefit both agronomic outcomes and global climate efforts. 'The mycorrhizae and bacteria combination enhances carbon sequestration,' Kofman said. 'Through the reduction of nitrogen and phosphorus inputs, we also lower emissions. This dual approach of capturing carbon while reducing emissions has the potential to open up tens of millions of acres in the U.S., Canada, Brazil, and beyond for carbon credit markets.' Farmers often face economic barriers to implementing sustainable or regenerative solutions, as certain practices can require new, expensive equipment. However, adopting Indigo's biological solution requires minimal changes to their operations. 'The beauty of this product is that it doesn't require farmers to change their workflows,' Kofman continued. 'They purchase the combined product, apply it as they normally would, and immediately start seeing benefits. In addition to agronomic improvements, they can also generate a new income stream through carbon credits.' Because carbon credit revenue is not tied to commodity prices, it provides farmers with a more stable income source while increasing the long-term value of their land. Breaking barriers in carbon markets Scaling this solution comes with challenges, particularly in navigating the complexities of carbon markets. 'One of the main issues is additionality. Buyers are looking for new solutions that can demonstrate a clear, measurable impact,' Kumar said. 'Our product is inherently new, making it an attractive option for those looking to make a meaningful difference.' Companies seeking to reduce their supply chain emissions tied to agriculture (Scope 3) prioritize solutions that provide a high return on investment, and Kumar believes this initiative fits that demand perfectly. 'This is a product that can be deployed at scale, at low cost, and with immediate impact. If companies are looking for high-quality carbon credits, this is a viable pathway to achieving their goals,' he said Another key consideration for carbon markets is permanence, or how long sequestered carbon remains in the soil. Indigo and Groundwork's collaboration includes ongoing investigations into the permanence of soil organic matter. 'We believe that our product can significantly enhance the long-term storage of carbon in soil, creating a more durable and credible carbon offset solution,' Kofman said. Kumar agreed, explaining: 'Not all soil carbon is the same. Some pools of carbon are more stable and long-lasting than others. If our products can help increase the durability of soil carbon storage, it would be a game-changer for the carbon credit market.' The road ahead The initiative is now in its testing phase. 'We are at the beginning stages,' Kumar said. 'We have identified individual microbial candidates that provide parts of the solution, and we are now conducting compatibility tests to ensure they work well together. Our first field trials are set for this spring, and we are optimistic that we will see strong synergistic effects.' Kofman is also confident. 'We believe the combination of mycorrhizae and bacteria will yield significant benefits. This is all based on science. Mycorrhizae and bacteria have well-documented advantages, and our approach is grounded in rigorous research.' As the agricultural industry faces growing pressure to adopt more sustainable and resilient farming practices, the partnership between Indigo Ag and Groundwork BioAg presents a compelling vision. By harnessing the power of biological solutions, farmers can enhance crop yields, reduce reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and create new revenue opportunities for farmers, while contributing to global climate goals. 'This is just the beginning,' Kumar said. 'With continued innovation, investment, and collaboration, we can unlock a more sustainable future for agriculture and the planet.' Learn more about Indigo's Sustainability Solutions. Learn more about Groundwork's mycorrhiza solution and carbon project. This article series is sponsored by Indigo Ag and produced by the TriplePundit editorial team. Visit 3BL Media to see more multimedia and stories from TriplePundit
