World Economic Forum recognises Genomatica as ‘technology pioneer’

29/08/2014
Genomatica has been named a 2015 World Economic Forum (WEF) technology pioneer and will be awarded at a WEF event in China in September.

The chemical company uses bio-based manufacturing processes that enable its partners to produce chemicals in a ‘better way’, it says, from alternative feedstocks, with greater sustainability than petroleum-based processes.

Genomatica was chosen from hundreds of applicants by an independent selection committee of 82 technologists.

It commercialized a biobased process for the production of the intermediate chemical BDO, used in athletic apparel, running shoes, electronics and automobiles. Its GENO BDO has been licensed by BASF and Novamont, used to produce thousands of tons of product and used by numerous including Invista, DSM, Lanxess, Toray and Far Eastern New Century.

“Being named a World Economic Forum Technology Pioneer is recognition that Genomatica is an enabler of change, delivering high-impact technology that provides a way for a huge global industry to deliver the same great everyday products as today – like packaging, carpets, tires, and more – but with greater sustainability,” said Christophe Schilling, CEO of Genomatica.

“The deeper discussions with global thought leaders that comes with being a WEF Technology Pioneer can further accelerate change by making more mainstream firms aware of the compelling alternatives enabled through biotechnology.”