The event took place on November 26, 2019, as part of the outreach activities for the ANII-funded project titled “Biosynthetic Cascade for the Conversion of Glycerol to L-Lactic Acid,” led by Dr. Lorena Betancor, Professor of Protein Technology.
The following people participated in the event:
- Manuel Albaladejo of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
- Gonzalo Sobral, journalist and innovation mentor.
- Magdalena Ripoll, a graduate in Biotechnology Engineering and a researcher in the Protein Technologies group.
- Blanca Gómez Guerrero of Latitud, Latu Foundation.
- Felipe Machado, entrepreneur, Hifa.
- Inés Tiscornia, the university’s environmental management advisor and assistant coordinator of the Biotechnology Laboratory.
Albaladejo shed light on a reality unknown to many and revealed that waste was among the most traded commodities between 2000 and 2017. He added that these commodities “are growing at a rate above the global trade average, with rising prices and imports.”
He emphasized the importance of finding ways to recycle the waste generated, cited some examples currently being implemented in Latin America, but stressed the need to reduce waste and move toward a circular economy.
In line with this focus on finding sustainable solutions, Felipe Machado and Inés Tiscornia presented their projects. Machado spoke about Hifa, a startup that produces a biomaterial—made from a fungus and industrial waste—that can replace any object made of plastic.
Meanwhile, Tiscornia spoke about Biopack , a startup that produces compostable and biodegradable bags made from 100% plant-based Italian raw materials. “Our goal is also to raise environmental awareness and provide educational tools to empower consumers,” said the entrepreneur.
Magdalena Ripoll, a biotechnology engineer, presented the project led by Betancor that led to the event, which began in 2017 with support from the Energy Sector Fund.
According to the engineer, the research proposes a green biotechnology strategy to repurpose a byproduct of the biodiesel industry: crude glycerol.
As Ripoll explained, because this product is contaminated, there is little demand for it and its market value is very low. “Our strategy is to turn it into a high-value-added product through environmentally responsible practices.”
Following the presentations, there was an opportunity for networking, sharing ideas, and exploring new innovation projects for the sector.