Continental, a global technology company, has awarded its inaugural Climate Solutions Prize to Biotic, a startup specialising in sustainable alternatives to plastics. The prize, part of a collaboration with Startup Nation Central (SNC), recognises Biotic's innovative solution in the 'Pioneering Sustainable Material' tech challenge. Its winning method involves using algae and seawater to modify plastic properties, offering a bio-based alternative with the potential to replace fossil-based components in the automotive industry.
Gilles Mabire, CTO, Continental Automotive, describing the collaboration with Biotic as part of a broader strategy, said, Continental aims to work with agile and innovative companies to find sustainable solutions, particularly those focused on complete recycling throughout the material's life cycle.
Biotic's Bio-Based Solution For Automotive Plastics
Founded in 2020, Biotic envisions a world where plastic is no longer a concern. Recognising that polymers and plastics constitute a significant portion of a car's weight, Biotic developed a precision fermentation process using algae and seawater as feedstock. The resulting biobased polymer holds promise for replacing fossil-based components and packaging in the automotive sector.
Adi Goldman, CEO and co-founder of Biotic, expressed pride in receiving the Climate Solutions Prize and looks forward to working with Continental to further develop their solution for scalability.
The Climate Solutions Prize competition is part of Continental's broader strategy to address global concerns about environmental degradation and contribute to sustainability goals. Continental has actively sought collaborations, such as co-pace, its startup organisation established in 2018. Through initiatives like the Climate Solutions Prize, Continental aims to identify and support innovative technologies that contribute to CO2 neutrality and a circular economy.
With plastics being a key material in Continental's automotive applications, the company is keen on exploring sustainable alternatives. Biotic, aligns with Continental's commitment to redefining manufacturing processes for reduced environmental impact and reusing components at the end of their lifecycle.
Continental's multi-faceted approach involves leveraging expert networks, university collaborations, local partnerships, and strategic investments through corporate venture capital. The company actively seeks promising sustainable automotive technologies to meet sustainability requirements set by stakeholders.
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