Sustainable development
Although bioactive molecules initially derived from plants are often produced by chemical synthesis, this approach is far from optimal from an environmental perspective.
Conventional chemical synthesis involves multistage processes that often use toxic catalysts and reactants, extreme pH and temperature conditions, and complex, potentially polluting industrial facilities for mass production.
In traditional biotechnology, the host micro-organisms are fed carbon (sugars) and nitrogen (peptones) and also need vitamins and various other indispensable chemical elements. The growth of these micro-organisms often generates greenhouse gases.
At Aplantex, our photosynthetic phytoreplicators capture and assimilate atmospheric CO2, and their growth is fuelled by light and mineral salts dissolved in water. The phytoreplicators capture up to 40% of their dry weight in carbon from atmospheric CO2, making them a more environmentally responsible way to produce bioactive molecules than traditional biotech platforms based on micro-organisms or the conventional chemical industry. They also free up the sugars and peptones required for the classic biotech process for use in human and animal food.
Finally, because the residual biomass is extremely nutrient-rich, it is a valuable ingredient for food processes and companies that specialize in the production of sugars, peptones, animal feed and organic fertilizer.
Circular economy
Aplantex’s industrial platform is firmly connected to the circular economy that is one of the pillars of Industry 4.0, thanks to local production which considerably reduces supply chain logistics, automation of every stage of the process, circular re-use of numerous inputs, and the use of renewable energy sources.
All this makes Aplantex an ideal supplier for any business that seeks to meet strong environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria.