White, brown and grey biotechnology in post Covid world

There is a desire for establishing a sustainable world, or even better, a thrivable one, for the wellbeing of all living beings and the Earth. In this view, the bioeconomy plays a key role, and its growth is expected to exceed $2.4 trillion USD by 2028. Biotechnology is a multidisciplinary field driving the circular economy and the bioeconomy, with applications spanning all levels of development, ranging from basic research to full-scale commercial implementation. The seminar presented by Dr Ernesto Hernandez focuses on the role of the white, brown and grey biotechnology in supporting sustainable development and resilience in a post-COVID world. White biotechnology includes gene-based modifications approaches comprising, among others, cloning, gene editing and protein engineering, with applications such as industrial enzymes, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and therapeutic solutions. Brown biotechnology focusses on arid, desert and dry regions, including applications in agriculture, environmental restoration, astrobiology and extremophiles microbes of industrial relevance. Grey biotechnology comprises bioprocessing engineering and biocatalysis for feedstock conversion into valuable products and services, including applications such as fermentations for biomass conversion and waste valorisation. Additionally, the seminar highlights key challenges and the need for strategic policy, innovations and shift in mindset to redefine waste as value. White, brown and grey biotechnology offer promising possibilities to achieve sustainable development and thrivability in a post-COVID world.