#None #Sojitz #Genomatica #Plant-based Nylon

Partnership Announcement

On October 7, 2025, Genomatica, a leader in industrial biomanufacturing technology, announced an exciting new partnership with Sojitz Corporation aimed at advancing the commercialization of the world's first plant-based nylon-6. This collaboration seeks to address the pressing need for sustainability in material production by utilizing Genomatica's proprietary technology, which enables the creation of nylon-6 from 100% renewable carbon sources.

What is Nylon-6?

Nylon-6 is a highly versatile synthetic material, traditionally derived from fossil fuels. It is employed in a wide array of products, from outdoor gear and clothing to automotive components and military materials. The shift to a plant-based variant represents not only a move towards sustainability but also an essential step in reducing reliance on fossil-derived materials.

The Role of Sojitz

Sojitz Corporation is making a significant strategic investment in this partnership. Their financial backing, combined with commercial expertise, is crucial for accelerating the market entry of plant-based nylon-6. Mitsutoshi Takagi, General Manager of the Environment and Life Science Department at Sojitz, emphasized that their collaboration with Genomatica aims to redefine the future of the chemical sector by innovating materials that are both commercially viable and responsible.

Advancing the Mission

John Gugel, CEO of Genomatica, stated, "Through this collaboration, we're progressing toward enabling cost-competitive production of plant-based nylon-6 at an industrial scale." This endeavor signifies a potential breakthrough, allowing brands and consumers to access high-performance materials sourced from renewable and traceable carbon reserves.

Establishing Industry Leadership

The partnership also envisions the formation of a consortium that will invite industry leaders to collectively establish a new entity dedicated to the flagship commercial plant. This initiative is aligned with Sojitz's long-term 'Sustainability Challenge,' emphasizing the need for businesses to engage in sustainable practices while promoting decarbonization efforts across their operations.

Previous Collaborations

Genomatica's previous partnership with Aquafil has already yielded successful outcomes, producing 100% renewably sourced nylon-6. The duo plans to scale their pre-commercial operations further, ensuring that the bioprocess technology meets the standards required for mainstream applications. Various established nylon-6 applications are anticipated to undergo testing with this innovative material.

Prior collaborations have included projects with renowned brands like lululemon for their Earth Day campaign, showcasing the material's versatility and market readiness.

A Vision for Sustainable Materials

The plant-based nylon-6 is just one of the many projects Genomatica is driving towards commercialization. The company's innovative GENO™ Bio-BDO process is now operational at Qore's new renewable BDO manufacturing facility in Iowa, which is significant for its scale and sustainability. As part of a joint venture between Cargill and HELM, it serves as a model for brands aiming to transition from traditional, fossil-based raw materials to sustainable options.

Collaborations with companies like Hyosung aim to establish the world's first fully integrated plant for bio-based spandex, signifying a broader shift within the industry to prioritize sustainable practices.

Conclusion

As Genomatica and Sojitz embark on this journey, they exemplify how strategic partnerships can drive innovation in sustainability. By focusing on developing sustainable materials through advanced technologies, they hope to transform not only the nylon industry but also pave the way for a more sustainable future for various sectors reliant on chemical materials. For more information on Genomatica, visit their official website, and to learn about Sojitz's commitment to sustainability, check their announcements.