Company: Deep Blue BioTech
Location: Stowmarket
Founded: 2023
Founders: Manuel Rios (CEO), Tim Corcoran (COO)
Written by: Omar Ajaz
Edited by: Caroline Babisz and Natasha Barrow
We had the opportunity to speak to Manuel Rios, founder and CEO of Deep blue Biotech, about how they are starting a sustainable revolution in chemical manufacturing.
“We want to create a connection with the next generation by providing sustainable products that pay off with a promise”
The chemical industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, responsible for around 2% of total CO2 emissions, which can rise to nearly 8% when considering the entire lifecycle of chemical production [1]. Traditional methods are energy-intensive and heavily reliant on fossil fuels, posing significant sustainability challenges. Deep Blue BioTech is addressing these challenges head-on with their groundbreaking cyanobacterial platform. By harnessing the natural efficiency of cyanobacteria, which are highly effective at converting CO2 into valuable chemicals, they offer a sustainable, carbon-neutral alternative to fossil fuel-based production. This technology is set to revolutionise industries such as pharmaceuticals, beauty, and personal care by providing eco-friendly, biodegradable chemical solutions[2, 3].
“We want to be one of the spearhead companies, making consumers of these products see the future in an optimistic way. A lot of the current messaging isn’t engaging! And we want to work towards creating a more sustainable future.”
They are leveraging synthetic biology and AI to create environmentally friendly chemicals. Their first product is hyaluronic acid, which is widely used in skincare and cosmetic treatment. Their process involves using genetically engineered cyanobacteria that consume CO2 and produce chemicals using light and water [4]. This method is not only eco-friendly but also cost-effective, as it requires cheaper inputs compared to other biomanufacturing techniques [4].
Founded in 2023, Deep Blue BioTech emerged from the founders’ shared passion for sustainability and their deep expertise in synthetic biology and chemical engineering. They secured $800,000 in pre-seed funding and received two Innovate UK grants. The company has signed several letters of intent with cosmetics firms and They believe that partnering with the beauty industry can help change perceptions and promote the use of green chemicals.
Deep Blue BioTech is on a mission to lead the transition to a sustainable chemical industry. They have recently secured funding from The Greenhouse Accelerator, which will be instrumental in scaling their technology and expanding their market presence.
“Scaling our products is a challenge within this industry as it depends on the market appetite but it will come soon and in waves!”
Their long-term goal is to expand their product line and establish partnerships that drive the adoption of green chemicals globally. The company has also formed strategic partnerships with industry leaders to accelerate the adoption of their solutions. Looking ahead, Deep Blue BioTech plans to continue innovating and expanding their product portfolio, with the ultimate goal of making a significant impact on the global carbon footprint [2, 3].
By leveraging the power of synthetic biology, Deep Blue BioTech is not only providing a sustainable alternative to fossil-derived chemicals but also paving the way for a greener future. Their work exemplifies how innovative technology can address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Deep Blue BioTech were one of eight groundbreaking startups graduating from the SEC's in-house accelerator programme, the Innovators Club. Find out more about the Innovators Club here.
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