Protein Evolution utilizes its Biopure™ technology to convert discarded polyester into terephthalic acid and mono-ethylene glycol, enabling the production of 100% recycled polyester. This process reduces reliance on fossil fuels and minimizes plastic waste, addressing the significant environmental impact of traditional plastic production.
Funding
$20M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
The fashion and consumer goods industries rely heavily on polyester, a plastic derived from fossil fuels, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. Traditional recycling methods for polyester are limited, with the majority ending up in landfills, incinerators, or downcycled into materials with diminished properties. Consumers are largely unaware of the connection between crude oil and plastic-based textiles, hindering efforts to promote sustainable alternatives.
Solution
Protein Evolution offers Biopure™, a technology that biologically recycles discarded polyester waste into its original building blocks: terephthalic acid (PTA) and mono-ethylene glycol (MEG). These components can then be used to create 100% recycled polyester that is chemically identical to virgin polyester derived from fossil fuels. By breaking down polyester at a molecular level, Biopure™ enables a circular economy for plastics, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing plastic waste. The resulting recycled polyester has a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional production methods.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes companies in the fashion, consumer goods, and packaging industries seeking sustainable alternatives to virgin polyester, as well as waste management companies looking for innovative recycling solutions.
Features
- Biopure™ technology uses biological processes to depolymerize polyester into PTA and MEG.
- The process handles various forms of polyester waste, including textiles and carpets.
- The resulting PTA and MEG can be used to create new polyester products without compromising quality.
- The technology reduces the carbon footprint associated with polyester production.
- It offers a solution for recycling polyester waste that would otherwise be incinerated or sent to landfills.