Bioworks Selected for L’AcceleratOR Sustainable Innovation Program by L'Oreal

Bioworks Selected for L’AcceleratOR Program

Bioworks, based in the Kyoto region of Japan, has made a significant leap in sustainable innovation by being selected for L'Oreal's prestigious L’AcceleratOR program. Out of approximately 1,000 submissions from 101 countries, only 13 companies were chosen, with Bioworks standing out as the sole representative from Asia.

Overview of the L’AcceleratOR Program

L’AcceleratOR is an ambitious initiative spearheaded by L'Oreal Group, with an investment of €100 million over five years, designed to propel sustainable innovation globally. In collaboration with the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL), the program targets pressing issues such as climate change, natural capital, and circularity. Its goal is to accelerate the implementation of versatile and sustainable solutions in society.

The selection process highlighted startups and SMEs that possess high potential in next-generation packaging, natural raw materials, circular solutions, and data intelligence.

Bioworks' Game-Changing Contributions

Bioworks has been working on developing a biomass material called PlaX, derived from plant sources like sugarcane, to cater to the demand in the “next-generation packaging & materials” sector. During the application process, Bioworks showcased its innovative material’s performance, processability, and suitability as an eco-friendly alternative to fossil-based plastics. They also emphasized traceability in their raw material procurement and compatibility with existing supply chains.

The company boasts proprietary material technology that enables the design and control of molecular structures on a microscale. PlaX is a next-generation biomass material that enhances the thermal resistance, impact resistance, durability, and various other properties of polylactic acid (PLA).

Through participation in the L’AcceleratOR program, Bioworks aims to advance pilot initiatives concerning next-generation bio-based and recyclable materials for the cosmetics industry.

About CISL

The Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) operates with a mission to stimulate leadership on a global scale, facilitating the transition of economies towards sustainability for people, nature, and climate. The institute collaborates with leaders and innovators from business, finance, and government, promoting accelerated action towards a sustainable future. Over the past five years, CISL has supported more than 500 startups through various initiatives and has been recognized as a top startup hub in the EU by the Financial Times for three consecutive years.

What is PlaX?

PlaX is a cutting-edge biomass material made from plant-based polylactic acid (PLA) combined with unique plant-derived additives developed by Bioworks. It is designed to mitigate environmental impacts and serves as a viable alternative to petroleum-derived synthetic fibers like polyester.

Key Features of PlaX Fibers:

- CO2 Emission Reduction: Switching to PlaX can significantly reduce CO2 emissions during the production of long fibers by 70% and short fibers by 50% compared to conventional alternatives.
- Water Efficiency: The fiber's production utilizes 92% less water compared to cotton from raw material to yarn manufacturing.
- Biodegradability: PlaX materials can be decomposed by microorganisms into water and CO2 in industrial composting environments, showcasing their biodegradable attributes.
- Closed-Loop Recycling: The material's compatibility with chemical recycling enhances resource circulation, promoting a closed-loop system.
- Lower Emissions on Incineration: When incinerated, PlaX generates less CO2 and does not produce harmful dioxins.
- Antimicrobial Properties: The lactate-derived fiber has natural antimicrobial effects, preventing the growth of bacteria such as Moraxella and Staphylococcus aureus, which contributes to odor reduction.

Company Background

Founded in 2015 by Koji Sakamoto, Bioworks is a material creation company with a vision of fostering a new ecosystem where the joy of creating and the richness of wearing continue. The company focuses on the manufacturing and sales of PlaX, a next-generation synthetic fiber derived from plant-based lactic acid, expanding into the textile sector since 2021. With a commitment to moving away from petroleum-derived materials, Bioworks has garnered attention from textile companies and brands both nationally and internationally.