BBNet announces funding for three innovative proof of concept projects
The Biomass Biorefinery Network (BBNet), on behalf of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), is excited to announce the funding of three early stage proof of concept projects aimed at advancing sustainable and bio-based products and processes. These projects highlight the commitment of BBNet and BBSRC to fostering innovation in the bioeconomy, addressing environmental challenges, and promoting a circular economy.
1. Bio-based solvent production from lignocellulose derived sugars and aromatics
Dr. Neil Dixon, Reader in Sustainable Biotechnology and Dr Micaela Chacόn at the University of Manchester spearhead this project aiming to produce biobased solvents from lignocellulose derived sugars and aromatics. Aromatic solvents are valuable industrial chemicals used extensively in the flavour, fragrance, pharmaceutical, and food industries. Traditionally synthesized from non-renewable petrochemical resources, their production poses sustainability and climate challenges. In partnership with AstraZeneca, the collaboration aims to develop a sustainable biotechnological route to a key aromatic using metabolic engineering of Pseudomonas putida KT2440 and corncob lignocellulose-derived feedstocks.
Led by Dr. Yongqiang Liu, Associate Professor in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University of Southampton, this project is dedicated to advancing sustainable succinic acid (SA) production from biomass through fermentation by developing an innovative biofilm-based technology. Working with industrial partners, Fiberight Ltd., the research team will employ a novel method where specific microbial strains are immobilized in biofilms, overcoming the drawbacks of conventional immobilisation methods such as complexity, high costs, and reduced microbial sugar uptake and activity. This initiative improves the economic feasibility of bio-based SA production, thus diminishing environmental impacts and supporting the transition towards a bio-based economy.
3. Enabling the paper sector’s decarbonisation via anaerobic digestion (PAPERdecarb)
Dr. Silvia Tedesco is a Reader in sustainability at the University of Salford with multi-disciplinary experience in bioenergy applications. This proof of concept project aligns with the UK’s strategy for decarbonization by converting paper sludge into biogas through biological degradation, providing low-carbon heat and electricity, and recycling residues into green building materials. Working with industrial partners, E4structures ltd. and a paper manufacturer in the North of England, the research focuses on fermentation of paper-based byproducts using microorganisms, fitting within the themes of bioenergy, circular economy, and energy decarbonization.
The quality of the applications received for the final round of BBNet proof of concept funding was exceptional; the selected projects not only exemplify scientific excellence but also have the potential to make a substantial impact on sustainability and the global bioeconomy.
Find out more about the projects we have supported and read a selection of case studies on our website.
