November 17, 2024, China - At the 12th China Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Forum in Tianjin, significant advancements in bio-manufacturing were discussed. Li Can, an academician from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, presented a method for synthesizing green methanol using solar energy, water, and carbon dioxide through artificial photosynthesis.
The process involves electrolysis of water to produce green hydrogen, followed by hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to create methanol, termed 'liquid sunlight methanol.'
Future research aims to integrate this 'liquid sunlight' with green bio-manufacturing to synthesize fine chemicals, proteins, carbohydrates, and starches.
Bio-manufacturing, characterized by its green, low-carbon, and renewable properties, significantly impacts sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and energy. The forum highlighted the rapid development of China's industrial biotechnology, with investment nearing 30 billion yuan (approximately $4.5 billion) in 2024, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector.
The recently released '2024 White Paper on the Development of China's Industrial Biotechnology' indicates that China leads the world in patent applications and research publications in this field. Various provinces are implementing supportive policies for bio-manufacturing, aiming to establish industrial clusters and accelerate technological advancements.
For instance, Hebei has introduced 17 measures to support the industry, while Shanghai plans to establish over five synthetic biology platforms by 2025. Beijing aims to create one or two industrial clusters worth 100 billion yuan by 2026.
Experts emphasize that the future of food synthesis will focus on essential nutrients while ensuring safety, potentially leading to healthier and tastier options.