What is the Power-to-Protein Project?
The Power-to-Protein project is all about closing the artificial nitrogen cycle by direct N upcycling as microbial protein. It focuses on a highly efficient microbial resynthesis process using a mixed culture of bacteria that use hydrogen as an energy source. Professor Willy Verstraete, idea holder and emeritus professor at Ghent University (LabMET), emphasizes that “The technology for recovery of reactive nitrogen as microbial protein is available but a change of mindset needs to be achieved to make such recovery acceptable.” This project, in collaboration with research partners like the KWR Watercycle Research Institute, investigates its technological, economic, and environmental feasibility… a fascinating approach to rethinking nutrient cycles.
Main Benefit and Key Facts
Key figures and facts surrounding the project include:
- Growing world population: By 2050, a world population of 9 billion will need to be fed.
- Effect on crop production: Climate change will affect traditional crop production worldwide.
- Rise in total consumption: Energy and resource consumption will increase, pushing for more efficient ways to manage both.
- Increase in renewable energy: With a rise in renewables, hydrogen emerges as a promising future energy carrier.
- Ammonia costs: In Dutch sewage water treatment, tens of thousands of tons of ammonia-nitrogen are destructed at high energy costs (9 to 40 MJ/kg NH4-N), while in fertilizer plants, the Haber-Bosch process demands around 45 MJ/kg NH4-N.
Research and Technological Developments
The project has seen groundbreaking research, such as the study on the fundamentals of hydrogen transfer completed in February 2022. This study focused on understanding hydrogen mass transfer in bioreactors, specifically bubble column reactors, to boost the biosynthesis of single-cell protein. The insights from previous project phases paved the way towards this research, reflecting a natural progression in the technological journey… a true blend of innovation and science.
Industry Collaborations and Pilot Studies
Since its inception, the Power-to-Protein initiative has been closely tied with industry-led ideas and pilot studies. In July 2018, the Allied Waters Collab H2Bio advanced technology and market development for the concept, focusing on the biosynthesis of organic compounds using green hydrogen. Earlier pilot studies, including those at SWTP Horstermeer in Amsterdam and at the SWTP in Enschede, were instrumental. These pilots saw a shift towards producing larger amounts of microbial proteins, with targets such as at least 30 kg in one phase. Additionally, material produced during pilot trials was even analyzed externally to assess in-vitro digestibility of the produced single-cell protein. The dynamic interplay between academic research and pilot implementation is evident here.
Future of Food Innovations
The project has also played a role in shaping future food narratives. In July 2019, it was a highlight at the Future Food exhibition at Nemo Science Museum in Amsterdam. This event presented a future food journey where visitors explored scenarios involving plant-based alternatives, in-vitro meat, biotech, functional foods, and single-cell proteins. The inclusion of Power-to-Protein in such exhibitions showcases its potential to revolutionize food production and sustainability in a way that resonates with an increasingly health-conscious and eco-aware audience.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger – by promoting alternative protein sources to feed a growing population.
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – through the use of hydrogen as a future energy carrier.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – by pushing forward innovative technologies for nutrient recovery.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – by improving efficiency in resource usage and reducing waste.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by addressing challenges posed by climate change on crop production and energy use.
Looking Ahead
As the world faces challenges such as a rapidly growing population, climate change, and rising resource demands, the Power-to-Protein project stands out as a transformative solution. The underlying philosophy of repurposing reactive nitrogen into valuable microbial protein not only provides a new perspective on waste management but delivers hope for sustainable food production. Ongoing research, collaborations, and pilot studies continue to drive the narrative forward… hinting at a future where innovative technology meets environmental necessity in impactful ways.
