A breakthrough initiative to transform CO2 into green fuel, chemicals, and sustainable materials.
In a groundbreaking $120 million research effort, the National University of Singapore (NUS) is spearheading advancements in synthetic biology, harnessing carbon-consuming microbes to produce sustainable fuels, chemicals, and materials. This initiative aims to revolutionize the manufacturing industry while aligning with Singapore’s decarbonization goals.
Transforming CO2 into Resources
Synthetic biology involves modifying the DNA of fast-growing microbes, such as algae, enabling them to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable products. The project aspires to create an economically viable method for using CO2 as a fuel source for manufacturing, reversing the traditional refining process reliant on crude oil.
Sustainable Goals and Collaboration
Singapore plans to transform Jurong Island into a hub for sustainable chemicals, increasing the output of eco-friendly products by 1.5 times compared to 2019 levels. Professor Liu Bin, NUS Deputy President (Research and Technology), emphasizes the significance of collaboration between research institutes, including NTU, A*Star, and international entities, to accelerate innovation.
The Economic Development Board (EDB) highlights synthetic biology as a key strategy to meet rising consumer demand in Asia and reduce environmental impact. The global synthetic biology market is projected to reach US$55.37 billion by 2030, quadrupling its current value.
Pioneering Research Initiatives
Key research efforts include:
Cyanobacteria Efficiency: NUS and Shanghai Jiao Tong University are working to enhance the photosynthesis efficiency of cyanobacteria, enabling the conversion of CO2 into biofuels and biomaterials.
Sustainable Aviation Fuels: Collaborating with the French National Centre for Scientific Research, scientists are engineering plant-based molecules as high-performance aviation fuels, essential for Singapore’s upcoming mandate to use sustainable aviation fuel in flights by 2026.
Synthetic Biology’s Expanding Applications
Since its inception in 2014, NUS’ Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI) has received over $150 million in funding, driving innovations in pharmaceuticals, therapeutics, and resource recovery. Synthetic biology has enabled groundbreaking developments, such as:
Producing synthetic insulin and complex drug molecules.
Engineering T-cells for cancer immunotherapy.
Developing enzymes and microbes for bio-manufacturing oleochemicals in partnership with agri-business giant Wilmar.
The Future of Green Innovation
As microbes are designed to thrive on CO2, the team is also exploring agricultural waste as a potential feedstock, despite Singapore’s limited agricultural sector. By leveraging artificial intelligence, researchers aim to optimize microbial productivity and improve cost efficiency.
The advancements in synthetic biology promise not only to reduce dependence on fossil fuels but also to position Singapore as a leader in bio-based economy innovation, shaping a greener and more sustainable future.
