Bio-Botanica Inc., a family-owned and operated company, specializing in botanicals for over 45 years and headquartered in Hauppage (New York), has partnered with U.S. biotech company Genomatica to create a new line of botanical extracts using a naturally sourced, sustainably produced butylene glycol. These products, manufactured by Bio- Botanica Inc., feature Genomatica’s proprietary ingredient, Brontide.
Business
U.S. BIO: the global economic value of the biobased economy is $355.28 billion

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released a new report on the bioeconomy, “Indicators of the U.S. Biobased Economy”, which measures substantial economic growth, job creation, and household income for the agricultural sector from biofuel and bioenergy production. Moreover, it indicates great potential for additional prosperity from future growth in renewable chemicals and biobased products. BIO, the U.S. Biotechnology Innovation Organization, calculates that the global economic value of the biobased economy – including industrial biotechnology, renewable chemicals and polymers, biofuels, enzymes and biobased materials – is $355.28 billion.
Vivergo plant re-opens. The bioethanol industry calls for the Government to introduce E10 fuel

The Vivergo plant has re-opened following a four-month shut-down period following unfavourable trading conditions; in part – according to the British company – “driven by Government inaction on the future of renewable fuels and current market conditions”. It was closed in November and has been conducting maintenance and upgrade work during the closed period.
Over the coming months, it is hoped that conditions will improve as a result of the RTFO being passed through Parliament in March. This will come into effect later this month, increasing the use of renewable fuels in transport from 4.75% to a target of 9.75% by 2020.
The whisky-based economy takes a step forward with Celtic Renewables

Celtic Renewables Ltd, the innovative Scottish start-up providing next generation biofuel, is building a commercial demonstrator plant, which will produce over half a million litres of biofuel each year.
Bio-on launched a brand-new line of cosmetic ingredients for sun protection
Bio-on launched a brand-new line of cosmetic ingredients for sun protection made from its 100% natural and biodegradable bioplastic. The new products are part of the minerv bio cosmetics family of bioplastic micro powders presented in Spring 2017 and designed for cosmetics that respect the environment and human health.
This latest innovation is a series of ultra-green, high-performing SPF (Sun Protection Factor) Boosters designed to improve sun protection products.
Elevance launched a new plant-based emollient made from certified non-GMO coconut oil

Elevance Renewable Sciences, Inc., the Illinois-based company which creates novel, high-performing specialty chemicals from renewable feedstocks, announced the commercial availability of Elevance Soft CG-200, a new plant-based emollient. Made from certified non-GMO coconut oil and Elevance’s soy-based polymer, Elevance Soft CG-200 expands the company’s line of bio-based personal care products.
The University of York is to lead on a £5million project to develop the bioeconomy

The University of York is to lead on a £5million project to develop the bioeconomy across Yorkshire, the Humber region and the Tees Valley. The THYME project – this is its name – will build on the existing expertise and innovation in the region in a new collaboration between the Universities of York, Hull and Teesside. Those involved in the three year project say the funding will boost the region’s economy, create jobs and deliver major environmental benefits.
BIOPEN: An Open-innovation Platform to strengthen cooperation and joint development of bioindustries and downstream sectors

An Open-innovation Platform to strengthen cooperation and joint development of bio-based industries and downstream sectors. This is BIOPEN, the European open-innovation platform that will support bioeconomy stakeholders to succeed, offering them new ways to accelerate the production of their sustainable and competitive bio-based products.
DSM continues to invest in the biofuel industry

Royal DSM, a global science-based company active in health, nutrition and materials, headquartered in the Netherlands, will bring innovative solutions to the biofuels industry with a full portfolio offering of yeast and enzymes for starch, fiber and biomass conversions.
Croda acquired Canadian marine biotech company Nautilus
British multinational company Croda International Plc, specialized in the field of speciality chemicals for some of the biggest, most successful brands in the world, acquired Nautilus Biosciences Canada Inc, a technology-rich marine biotechnology company based in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada.