BoortmaltX Accelerator: Fostering Sustainability for a Greener Future
As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change and environmental degradation, the role of sustainability in business has never been more critical. Google Trends data reflects the world's growing interest in sustainability. Search interest for 'sustainable development goals' has hit an all-time high since 2004, indicating that consumers and businesses are seeking sustainable solutions more than ever.
At BoortmaltX, we're committed to helping startups meet this rising demand. We believe in empowering startups to become part of the solution to global sustainability challenges. Here's how we're equipping startups to contribute to a more sustainable future.
Sustainable Farming
At BoortmaltX, we understand the environmental impact of agriculture and are dedicated to promoting sustainable farming practices. We prioritize local sourcing programs that emphasize environmentally sound practices, benefiting the environment and local communities. By encouraging startups to adopt such methodologies, we support the continuous improvement of farming practices and reduce the overall environmental footprint.
Water Conservation
Water scarcity is a pressing global issue, and BoortmaltX is committed to raising awareness about water conservation. We focus on optimizing water usage in our operations and wherever possible, reusing treated wastewater. By advocating for water-efficient practices, we contribute to a more sustainable future and help startups make responsible choices in their water consumption.
Energy & Emissions Reduction
Aligning with the 1.5°C Paris Agreement scenario, BoortmaltX is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. We invest in alternative energy, reduce energy consumption, source renewable energy, and work with our providers and farmers to achieve carbon-neutral malting barley. By incorporating these strategies, we inspire startups to follow suit and reduce their own emissions.
Health & Safety
BoortmaltX promotes a proactive health and safety culture, involving all employees and stakeholders. By fostering strong, visible leadership and prioritizing safety, we create one of the safest places to work. Startups joining our accelerator benefit from this environment, learning to prioritize health and safety in their businesses.
Startups working towards a sustainable future
1. The Every company
Headquarters: San Francisco, USA
Founded: 2015 by Arturo Elizondo, David Anchel
Activity: Animal-free proteins
The Every Company is revolutionizing the way we produce proteins with a unique, sustainable method. By leveraging decades of scientific research and known DNA sequences used by animals to make protein, The Every Company has developed a technique to decouple proteins from the animals that produce them. Utilizing precision fermentation, they insert the DNA sequence of chicken egg protein into yeast and feed the yeast sugar. Through fermentation, the yeast naturally converts sugar into protein, significantly reducing the use of water, land, and energy in the process. The end result is a nature-equivalent animal protein that's GMO-free, sugar-free, and doesn't require the use of a single animal - an innovative and eco-friendly alternative in protein production.
2. MycoTechnology
Headquarters: Greater Denver Area, USA
Founded: 2013 by Pete Lubar, Alan Hahn
Activity: Mushroom fermentation
By employing mycelium-fermentation, MycoTechnoloy is making a substantial contribution to sustainability. This unique process allows them to bio-transform various substrates and even waste streams into nutritionally enriched, sustainable plant-based ingredients, flavors, and actives. With this innovative approach, MycoTechnoloy not only produces high-quality products but also maximizes resource efficiency and minimizes waste, thereby embodying the principles of circular economy in their operations.
3. EniferBio
Headquarters: Espoo, Finland
Founded: 2019 by Simo Ellilä, Joosu Kuivanen, Anssi Rantasalo, Ville Pihlajaniemi, Heikki Keskitalo
Activity: Sustainable proteins
EniferBio's commitment to sustainability shines through their work. By reviving PEKILO® production, a unique mycoprotein, they're combating climate change by introducing a sustainable, high-protein product into the animal nutrition market. This not only reduces reliance on less sustainable protein sources, but also enhances the nutritional content of animal feed. Further, their tailored protein ingredient for the food sector contributes to the growing demand for sustainable, plant-based alternatives. Their innovative approach ultimately promotes a circular economy, reducing environmental impact while meeting market needs.
4. Formo
Headquarters: Berlin, Germany
Founded: 2018 by Raffael Wohlgensinger, Britte Winterberg
Activity: Precision fermented diary
Formo champions sustainability by replacing livestock with microorganisms to drastically reduce the environmental impact of protein consumption. This innovative approach leads to 84-97% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional dairy, utilizes less than 10% of the water, is over 100 times more efficient at converting calories, and requires less than 1% of the land. Importantly, this process involves no non-human animals.
5. Onego Bio
Headquarters: Espoo, Finland
Founded: 2022 by Maija Itkonen, Christopher Landowski
Activity: Precision fermentation
Onego Bio is taking a novel approach to sustainable protein production by using precision fermentation technology to create animal-free egg proteins. This Finnish startup, led by CEO Maija Itkonen, uses microbes to produce egg white proteins, thereby bypassing the environmental impact and volatility associated with traditional egg farming. Their process not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions and land use, but also ensures a steady supply of egg proteins, free from concerns like avian flu outbreaks. With its commitment to sustainable innovation, Onego Bio aims to provide a greener, more reliable solution for the food industry's needs.
BoortmaltX Accelerator
Our accelerator is more than just a stepping stone for startups - it's a launchpad for sustainable innovation. With the rising global interest in sustainability, there's never been a better time for startups to invest in sustainable practices. By aligning with BoortmaltX, startups can not only grow their businesses, but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Together, we can make a significant difference.
To learn more about our approach to sustainability, follow the journey here. You'll find comprehensive information about how we make a difference.