Genomatica has been selected as the winner of the 2014 Bioeconomy Leadership Award. The Symposium on Biotechnology for Fuels and Chemicals (SBFC) chose Genomatica as the company that has significantly advanced the development of a renewable resource-based fuels and chemicals economy. Genomatica was honored at an award ceremony during the 36th Symposium on Biotechnology for Fuels and Chemicals in Clearwater Beach, Florida.
Genomatica was recognized for driving the first genuine commercialization of a biobased process for the production of a high-volume intermediate chemical (1,4-butanediol, or BDO). Genomatica succeeded in going from concept to commercial reality in five years by developing a highly-efficient organism and industrial process; gaining confirmation and support from numerous large companies regarding application usability; executing at commercial-scale, by cost-effectively producing millions of pounds; and signing BASF and Novamont as first licensees, broadening the reach and impact of their technology.
Genomatica is also developing processes for additional major chemicals, with butadiene as its next target, and over $100 million in total support for its development program.
"We're honored to be recognized for helping drive commercialization of biotechnology within the mainstream chemical industry," said Christophe Schilling, Ph.D., CEO of Genomatica. "This is great recognition coming from this group of esteemed technology leaders comprised of previous award winners. This gives us further motivation to continue to harness biotechnology to bring disruptive innovations to the global chemical industry."
