Syensqo unveils microbiology lab to boost sustainable product development
This facility strengthens Syensqo’s ability to develop environmentally safe products from initial concept to final formulation
FRANCE – Syensqo, a Belgian multinational materials company, has unveiled a new microbiology laboratory in Lyon, France, reinforcing its dedication to sustainable product innovation.
This facility, covering 550 square meters, stands as the company’s largest global microbiology hub, designed to support research in biodegradability and environmental safety.
The lab integrates automated testing systems and machine learning tools, enabling biodegradability-by-design solutions across various industries, including beauty care, home care, agrochemicals, adhesives, and materials science.
With its focus on (eco-)toxicology and biodegradation testing, the facility strengthens Syensqo’s ability to develop environmentally safe products from initial concept to final formulation.
In line with the company’s sustainability goals, the lab’s construction included measures to reduce net power usage by 35% and lower carbon emissions by 36%, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint while advancing scientific capabilities.
In addition to internal research, the lab will offer biodegradability testing services to clients, particularly for complex formulations that require specialized evaluation and assessment.
Syensqo also aims to achieve GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) accreditation later in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to regulatory compliance.
Thomas Canova, Syensqo’s Head of Research and Innovation, emphasized the lab’s significance, stating, “Our new microbiology lab significantly strengthens our capacity to create safe and biodegradable solutions.”
“With advanced testing methods, digital capabilities, and increased precision and efficiency, we are accelerating the development of sustainable solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
Syensqo and ENERTRAG partner to power decarbonization with new solar farm
Recently, Syensqo and ENERTRAG France joined forces to launch the Bagatelle solar farm, an energy transition project in the Nièvre region of France.
This initiative represents a significant step toward sustainable energy production, combining the redevelopment of a former industrial site with the establishment of a solar power facility designed to support the local energy transition.
Spanning 25 hectares, the Bagatelle solar farm boasts an installed capacity of 17.9 MWp, generating an estimated 18.4 GWh annually, enough to power approximately 4,080 homes each year.
In addition, the facility is expected to contribute to a reduction of nearly 3,800 metric tons of CO₂ annually, reinforcing its role in advancing decarbonization efforts.
According to Syensqo, a portion of the electricity produced, totalling 1 GWh, is set to be utilized by Syensqo’s industrial plant, directly supporting the decarbonization of its operations.
The project also secured €1,625,700(USD 1.88 million) through participatory financing, raised from 481 citizen investors via crowdfunding platforms, with a return yield of 7%.
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