unspecific

Protein production without heavy metal residues

Proteins are a key tool of the bioeconomy. Among other things, biocatalytically active proteins (enzymes) can produce an incredible variety of complex biomolecules with potential applications ranging from basic chemicals and fuels to food additives and pharmaceuticals. Sometimes these processes are attractive because the molecules would be too complex for conventional chemical synthesis. Sometimes they are because of their energy-saving and environmentally friendly process conditions.

Biobased lightweight construction for Pedelecs

Almost every second bicycle sold in Germany in 2021 was a pedelec. As in the previous year, this represents an increase of around two million. The battery is an essential component of such electric bicycles - and at the same time a significant weight factor. With financial support from the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, the Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability (LBF) and Ansmann AG, a German manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries, have now developed a bio-based lightweight alternative.

F4B Initiative (2022): Nature Loss and Sovereign Credit Ratings

Even state bankruptcies seem possible as a result of biodiversity loss. And even states that are less dependent on biological resources and ecosystem services could be downgraded in their credit rating.

Current methodologies published and applied by leading credit rating agencies (CRAs) do not explicitly incorporate biodiversity and nature-related risks. Omitting them may ultimately undermine market stability.

Cushioning packaging

Regional residue recycling

Husks, the mostly unused hulls of cereal grains, represent an organic alternative to Styrofoam. They can be used to create a natural packaging solution that can be produced regionally from natural residues and developed to suit specific shapes. After use, this can be recycled or returned to the life cycle - due to its composition of purely organic components, the material should be biodegradable and home compostable; the corresponding certification is currently awaited.

Measure metabolism of individual cells

Whole-cell biocatalysts - sounds complicated, but simply means that cells of an organimus are used to produce valuable products - such as yeast for beer or bread. Even complex chemical molecules such as pharmaceuticals can be produced in this way. The microorganisms grow in a bioreactor or fermenter and produce the desired products through their metabolism. Researchers have long been asking the question: Are all cells equally productive or is there a kind of "division of labor"?

"The ecological footprint must incorporate all climate factors"

Emissions of the greenhouse gas CO2 are responsible for most of global warming. However, land and oceans currently absorb only about half of these emissions. So-called CO2 removal measures such as renaturation of peatlands, coal phase-out, energy-efficient building refurbishment and climate-friendly mobility are intended to counteract global warming. But are these measures really enough to rebalance carbon sources and sinks? No - says Nadine Mengis.

Mobilize sustainable biomass for gas production

Whether for electricity and heat production, for use in gas-powered household appliances or as a fuel, biogas is firmly established in everyday life. There are around 9,000 biogas plants nationwide, producing 94 terawatt hours (TWh) of biogas. Biogas production currently accounts for about 9% of total natural gas consumption in Germany. About half of the natural gas was imported from Russia in 2021. However, with the attack on Ukraine and a looming gas embargo by Russia, gas supply has become more uncertain.

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