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Biocatalysis and biomass conversion: enabling a circular economy
1Molecular Sciences Institute, School of Chemistry, University of the Witwatersrand, P O Wits 2050, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Summary
Biocatalysis, using enzymes, offers a sustainable solution for converting waste biomass into valuable products for a circular economy. Advances in biotechnology enhance enzyme discovery and performance, driving green chemical manufacturing.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Green Chemistry
- Circular Economy
Background:
- Addressing 21st-century challenges of sustainable manufacturing and carbon neutrality.
- Transitioning to a bio-based economy utilizing renewable biomass.
- Mitigating environmental degradation and climate change through innovative solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- Highlighting biocatalysis as a key technology for a sustainable bio-based economy.
- Discussing the advantages of enzymes over traditional catalysts.
- Showcasing advancements in enzyme discovery and engineering.
Main Methods:
- Leveraging (meta)genomics and big data for novel enzyme discovery.
- Employing directed evolution for protein engineering to enhance enzyme performance.
- Applying clean, catalytic processes for biomass conversion.
Main Results:
- Enzymes offer biocompatible, biodegradable, and non-hazardous catalytic solutions.
- Renewable enzyme resources provide cost-effectiveness and stability compared to metal catalysts.
- Significant improvements in enzyme discovery and performance have been achieved.
Conclusions:
- Biocatalysis is pivotal for achieving a bio-based circular economy.
- Advances in molecular biology are revolutionizing enzyme applications in industry.
- Sustainable chemical manufacturing relies on efficient and green biocatalytic processes.
Keywords:
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