What is the Project?
Reinventing the food system, Kyanos is tackling humanity’s biggest challenge: producing food sustainably for a world expected to house 10 billion humans by 2050. With the current food production system unable to scale, Kyanos takes inspiration from natural ecosystems, using the power of microalgae – the very first organism to develop photosynthesis and produce 50% of the oxygen we breathe. The project focuses on a disruptive plant-based protein production technology with no environmental downside. Driven by innovation and aligned with the European Green Deal objectives, Kyanos aims to change standards, preserve our planet, and ensure a fair, healthy, and environmentally friendly food system.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
- 95% less water use than similar production systems
- No requirement for arable land or nitrogen fertilizers
- Pioneering cultivation of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae in pods – a feat once considered impossible
- No pesticides or antibiotics used, ensuring full traceability and meeting EFSA claims on mood and activity
- Potential to impact more than 60 million people by providing healthier food and improved food security
Harnessing Nature’s Potential
At the core of Kyanos lies an appreciation for natural abundance. With 400,000 types of plants and 800,000 types of microalgae available, the possibilities for sustainable innovation are virtually unlimited. This approach is all about doing more with less… embracing efficiency and maximum output with minimal resource use. Kyanos has turned the once-impossible cultivation of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae into a reality. Exploring these natural avenues unlocks a transformative way to meet future food demands while remaining gentle on the planet.
Award-Winning Technology and Innovation
The technology behind Kyanos has been recognized as a true game changer. Listeners to the industry buzz heard awards and accolades, such as the Best Microalgae Award – Game Changer 2020, EIT Food Award 2021, and the Amazon Launchpad Award 2021. Additional awards include the Seal of Excellence of the European Community for the AFACTORY project, the CIC Innovation Business Award Jury’s Favorite, the EY Transition Entrepreneur Award, Septuors Agri-food Award, Innovation Award Made in 31, H2020 SME Instrument Award, Greentech Innovation Label since 2019, Climate KIC Award, Protein Summit Award for Most Novel Technology and Process in 2018, and the EASYNOV Occitanie Award in 2017. Each recognition underscores the breakthrough technology and industrial performance that makes this project so promising.
Environmentally Sustainable Production
Kyanos’ microalgae-based protein is a testament to sustainable innovation. The production process requires 95% less water compared to similar systems and eliminates the need for arable land, nitrogen fertilizers, pesticides, and antibiotics. This approach not only safeguards food quality but also dramatically reduces the environmental footprint. The method embodies a responsible use of technology, achieving full traceability and aligning with robust EFSA claims on mood and activity. The result is a scalable solution with the potential to save 8.5 kilotons of CO2 equivalent each year – an impactful step toward significant climate action.
Aligning With Global Initiatives
Kyanos’ innovative approach aligns with global initiatives like the European Green Deal and the “Farm to Fork” strategy, aiming to create a fair, healthy, and sustainable food ecosystem. By preserving ecosystems and biodiversity, this project ensures that environmental and food security challenges are addressed simultaneously. The venture’s entry into Phase II of the European Cleantech Climate KIC in May 2019 further validates its potential to drive environmental impact innovation. It is a prime example of putting scientific expertise into concrete applications that meet public expectations and nurture a healthier planet.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 15: Life on Land
Looking Forward: A Sustainable Future
Kyanos represents a beacon of transformative innovation in food production, uniting award-winning technology and natural ecosystem insights into one groundbreaking project. The initiative’s focus on sustainable, microalgae-based protein production is not only nutritive but also engineered to support environmental responsibility on a grand scale. With a notable potential to save 8.5 kilotons of CO2 equivalent yearly and impact over 60 million people, the project sets new standards for sustainable food systems. As the world eyes 2050 and the growing challenge of feeding 10 billion people, Kyanos stands poised to be a pivotal component in a future that balances our ecological needs with technological progress… The collaborative spirit between nature and innovation here is paving the way for a healthier, more secure, and more sustainable future.
