Sustainea Launches Major Regenerative Agriculture Initiative in Indiana

Introduction

Sustainea Bioglycols, a trailblazer in the field of renewable chemicals, has announced an ambitious project that aims to reshape agricultural practices in the Midwest. In partnership with Primient, a renowned producer of plant-based ingredients, Sustainea is set to initiate a significant regenerative agriculture project in Indiana. This initiative is designed to empower local farmers while also ensuring sustainable sourcing for Sustainea's forthcoming Bio-MEG plant in Lafayette.

Overview of the Project

The project will oversee approximately 1,000 acres of farmland situated in Lafayette, Indiana—a pivotal area within the U.S. Corn Belt, recognized for its high corn yield. Focusing on regenerative agricultural techniques, this initiative will enhance soil health, boost carbon sequestration efforts, and minimize greenhouse gas emissions, ultimately leading to a reduced environmental footprint.

Commitment to Climate Action

Gustavo Sergi, CEO at Sustainea, emphasizes the project’s potential to not only combat climate change but also fortify rural communities in the Midwest. Sergi stated, “Regenerative agriculture is a real opportunity to tackle climate change while strengthening rural American communities in the U.S. Midwest.” By directly collaborating with local farmers and trusted partners, Sustainea is laying the groundwork for sustainable, long-term success in the agricultural sector.

Strategic Partnerships

This regenerative agriculture project exemplifies Sustainea's ongoing collaboration with Primient, who has been instrumental in advancing the adoption of sustainable farming practices across the Midwest since 2018. Laura Kowalski, Primient’s Head of Sustainability and Marketing, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting the mutual goal of decarbonizing corn—the primary raw material for Sustainea’s Bio-MEG production.

Primient's program equips local farmers with the necessary tools, insights, and financial support to adopt regenerative agriculture practices. Techniques such as no-till farming, crop rotation, and the use of cover crops are emphasized to enable farmers to transition smoothly into these sustainable methods. Furthermore, advanced technology will allow farmers to monitor and assess the environmental impacts of their practices.

Scaling Sustainable Solutions

Sustainea’s Bio-MEG will be produced from renewable, plant-based feedstocks, and is a drop-in solution designed to help customers drastically reduce their carbon footprints without sacrificing quality or performance. With operations set to scale in the U.S., local regenerative sourcing will remain a cornerstone of Sustainea's overall business and sustainability agenda.

The Bio-MEG facility in Lafayette is slated to commence operations in 2028, processing an impressive 42,000 bushels of corn daily. This facility has the potential to avoid up to 400,000 tons of CO₂ emissions every year by replacing petroleum-based MEG with Sustainea’s low-carbon, plant-derived alternative.

Future Plans and Impact

As Sustainea prepares to commence operations, the goal is to expand the regenerative agriculture program significantly. Future initiatives will focus on three key areas: providing local farmers with support as they transition to these practices, gathering data for greater insights into the agricultural supply chain, and investing in on-farm regenerative practices.

Gustavo Sergi noted, “This initiative strengthens our commitment to designing a system that creates value at every level—from feedstock sourcing to the final products delivered.” By implementing these measures, Sustainea aims to offer partners and customers enhanced visibility into their supply chains, thus empowering them to take actionable steps toward reducing their environmental impact.

Conclusion

Sustainea's commitment to regenerative agriculture is a bold move toward fostering sustainability within the agricultural sector while supporting the local economy. As they embark on this transformative journey, the collaboration with Primient stands as a testament to the power of partnerships in addressing some of the greatest challenges facing our planet today. By championing regenerative practices, Sustainea is not just cultivating crops; they are cultivating a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.