Furniture coating

Coatings on wooden furniture are usually made from lacquers, varnishes or synthetic materials. Many of these synthetic coatings are derived from fossil fuels, release harmful substances and require a lot of energy to produce. Furthermore, plastic-coated furniture is difficult to recycle.

‘We use bacterial strains for protein production’

Microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts and moulds are masters of material conversion and have always been important tools in biotechnology. Not only can they be used to produce materials that are naturally biobased and biodegradable, but also proteins that can replace animal proteins in food. The production of so-called bacterial proteins - also known as single cell proteins - is the focus of Monika Konarzycka-Bessler's working group of the same name at the Fraunhofer Institute in Aachen.

GEA opens pilot plant in the USA

Whether milk or meat substitutes, alternative proteins have become an important source of raw materials for the production of sustainable and healthy foods. These are not only plant-based proteins that can replace animal proteins, but also proteins that can be obtained using cell-based or fermentative processes. However, the path to producing such innovative foods is associated with numerous hurdles and risks for companies.

Solutions for an efficient circular economy

Germany is considered a pioneer in waste separation and recycling throughout Europe. Despite this, only 17% of plastics are recycled in this country, with the majority being incinerated. In the reGIOcycle project, a consortium of eleven joint and five associated partners, including the University of Augsburg, has developed specific solutions for the Augsburg region to avoid, replace and recycle plastics more efficiently. The project was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research from January 2020 to January 2025.

Customising bio-based solvents

Acetone and methanol are two important starting materials used in the production of chemicals - including solvents. In many cases, they are still made from fossil raw materials such as crude oil. In the DESMOL2PRO project, an international research team involving the University of Magdeburg is now researching new approaches to the production of sustainable chemicals.

Study shows potential of regenerative agriculture

Regenerative agriculture is becoming increasingly important as it offers both ecological and economic benefits. This agricultural approach specifically promotes the build-up of humus in the soil, which binds carbon, improves soil quality, strengthens biodiversity and enables stable yields. In contrast to conventional agriculture, it regenerates natural ecosystems instead of merely utilising them.