Solvay to capitalize on Brazil’s position as a frontrunner in biologicals, and the presence of its own research lab there, to advance the Group’s product innovation and biotechnology ambitions
The partnership between Solvay and the University of São Paulo (ESALQ-USP - Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz) aims to develop bioproducts used mainly as bioinsecticides, biofungicides, bionematicides and inoculants in different crops. Solvay will provide its expertise to formulate the products.
“We have established our competence in biological formulations and the partnership with Solvay will make it possible to identify the compounds that are most compatible with biological ones, and that enable both improved efficiency in the field and increased shelf life,” said Professor Ítalo Delalibera, who is in charge of the project at ESALQ-USP.
The development of formulation solutions for biologicals is one of the pillars of Solvay’s growth strategy in the agriculture sector, aiming to provide farmers with more options for managing pests and disease. To help with this, Solvay is able to rely on its Agriculture Specialties formulation and Seed Treatment Laboratories, as well as the Group’s pioneering Industrial Biotechnology Laboratory (IBL), in its Research and Innovation Center in Paulínia, Sao Paulo state.
"We are joining forces on this project: ESALQ-USP will provide expertise in biopesticides, bioprocesses and agronomic applications, while Solvay will contribute our extensive knowledge in formulations for the agricultural sector, with surfactants, polymers, carriers and innovative additives," said Fernanda Costa, Solvay’s Agro Research and Innovation Manager in Latin America and Global Research and Innovation Manager for the Group’s Biologicals segment. "Brazil plays a significant role in this strategy: in addition to its importance in global agriculture, the country is now one of the largest markets for biologicals."
Solvay is constantly progressing by investing in product innovation and assets, as well as developing strategic partnerships that complement and expand on existing applications and expertise.
In this respect, Solvay launched a new Renewable Materials and Biotechnology platform in May 2022, dedicated to developing innovative and sustainable solutions for a range of markets, using renewable feedstocks and biotechnology. The new platform aims to help meet growing demand for sustainable solutions by offering and developing new business opportunities enabled by biotechnology.
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