From cells to solutions: How PHA could transform sustainability in the next five years

A groundbreaking discovery by a team of Chinese scientists, led by Chen Guoqiang, a bioengineering professor from Tsinghua University, is paving the way for a greener future.

They have developed a new biosynthetic material, PHA, which is grown entirely within cells. This innovative material stands out for its exceptional properties—non-toxic, harmless, and fully biodegradable—making it a promising alternative for addressing plastic pollution.

With the ability to achieve a negative carbon footprint, PHA has the potential to revolutionize industries ranging from food packaging to medical supplies, offering eco-friendly solutions that significantly reduce carbon emissions.

Although PHA remains costly today, Chen predicts that with technological advancements, it will enter people's daily lives within the next decade.