Once again, Again Bio, a startup originating from researchers at the Technical University of Denmark, proudly asserts that its genetically modified bacteria voraciously consumes approximately one ton of CO2 daily. The company, founded 2.5 years ago, secured a discreet $10 million seed round in February from ACME Capital, GV (previously Google Ventures), and Atlantic Labs. Additionally, Again Bio benefits from a substantial €43 million grant from Horizon Europe awarded to the PyroCO2 project employing its technology.
The core of Again Bio’s innovation involves directing industrial emissions, specifically flue gas from a Copenhagen wastewater treatment plant, into a 65-foot-tall bioreactor. Here, the specialized bacteria feed on both climate pollutants and hydrogen, ultimately producing a valuable byproduct: vinegar. The startup refines this byproduct into acetic acid and acetate, fundamental chemicals for various applications such as detergents, paints, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. Notably, Again Bio offers a point-of-source carbon capture service at no cost, as its revenue model revolves around selling the resulting output.
While the fermentation vessel at the Copenhagen plant is currently in a testing phase, providing samples of the resultant chemicals, Again Bio’s focus is on scaling up. CEO Torbjørn Ølshøj Jensen disclosed a significant undisclosed contract with a customer, emphasizing their commitment to building and deploying more plants. Jensen asserted that the technology is now operating at commercially viable yields, fueling the company’s expansion in Europe and North America.
Despite the challenging nature of the substances involved, co-founder and COO Max Kufner highlighted the adaptability of the bacteria, which evolve to cope with potential inhibitors present in the off-gas. In addition to genetic modifications, the company engages in forced evolution to enhance the bacteria’s capabilities.
While Again Bio aims to contribute to the decarbonization of industrial facilities, it currently relies on gray hydrogen derived from fossil fuels to power its specialized bacteria. Jensen acknowledged the carbon neutrality of their chemical production by capturing CO2 from the hydrogen manufacturing process. However, the methane industry supporting gray hydrogen production poses environmental challenges. Jensen expressed the company’s commitment to transitioning to green hydrogen, produced using electrolyzers and renewable energy, in the future.
In summary, Again Bio’s groundbreaking approach revolves around harnessing modified bacteria to combat climate pollution, offering a free carbon capture service while focusing on commercializing valuable chemical byproducts. The startup grapples with the complexities of industrial emissions and hydrogen sources, aiming for a more sustainable future with the eventual adoption of green hydrogen.
