Core Viewpoint - Lignocellulosic biomass, a renewable organic resource, can be efficiently converted into fermentable sugars using engineered strains of Clostridium thermocellum through consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) and consolidated bioconversion (CBS) strategies, which significantly reduce costs and enhance economic feasibility [2][3]. Group 1: Engineering Strains Development - The research team at Qingdao Energy Institute introduced an exogenous β-glucosidase (CaBglA) into Clostridium thermocellum to address feedback inhibition from cellobiose, resulting in the development of a third-generation CBS strain that significantly improved cellulose saccharification performance [3]. - The fourth-generation CBS strain, GB2, was constructed by integrating the CaBglA gene into the genome, achieving a cellulose-glucose conversion rate of up to 94% without relying on antibiotics, demonstrating stable and efficient cellulose degradation capabilities [4]. - Further enhancements were made by introducing a bifunctional xylanase/xylosidase (CcXyl0074) from Clostridium clariflavum into GB2, which improved the hemicellulose degradation ability of Clostridium thermocellum [4]. Group 2: Performance and Cost Efficiency - The engineered strain expressing CcXyl0074 was able to convert 84% of xylan into xylose within three days while maintaining high cellulose conversion efficiency, indicating a significant enhancement in hemicellulose degradation [4]. - The integration of both CcXyl0074 and CaBGL into the genome resulted in the GBX1 strain, which exhibited a 1.5 times higher maximum saccharification rate compared to GB2, showcasing synergistic degradation of cellulose and hemicellulose components [4]. - Optimization of the saccharification medium formulation led to an 87.3% reduction in cultivation costs, further improving the technical and economic viability of the CBS process [4]. Group 3: Research Contributions and Recognition - The research findings were published in the journal Bioresource Technology, with significant contributions from doctoral and master's students, as well as researchers from the Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences [6]. - A patent application has been filed for the engineered strain expressing bifunctional enzymes, indicating the potential for commercialization and industrial application of the developed technology [6].

Core Insights - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) of China has released two significant documents regarding the development of biological manufacturing, focusing on high-performance bioreactors and pilot-scale platforms, which aim to advance this emerging productive force in the industry [2][11]. Summary by Sections High-Performance Bioreactors - On November 4, MIIT published a notice listing the selected units for the innovation tasks related to high-performance bioreactors, with 9 key bioreactors and 23 leading universities, research institutes, and enterprises included in the list [2][4]. - Notable participants include companies and institutions such as Womei Biotech, the Chinese Academy of Sciences Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, and East China University of Science and Technology [2][5]. Pilot-Scale Platforms - On November 10, MIIT announced the first batch of units selected for the biological manufacturing pilot-scale capability construction platform, comprising 43 units [2][8]. - Among these, 12 units received ratings of four stars or above, including Tianjin University Frontier Research Institute of Synthetic Biology and Beijing University of Chemical Technology Qinhuangdao Bohai Biological Industry Research Institute [3][9]. Key Participants - The list of selected units for high-performance bioreactors includes various leading organizations such as: - Womei Biotech - East China University of Science and Technology - Dibeier Biotechnology - Chutian Technology [5][6]. - The pilot-scale platform includes institutions like: - Beijing Zhaoyan Biotechnology Co., Ltd. - Tianjin University - Chinese Academy of Sciences Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology [9][10].

Core Viewpoint - The "NFUCon 2025" forum will focus on innovations and commercialization in the non-grain biomass sector, aiming to promote large-scale applications of biomass and support carbon neutrality goals [2][11]. Group 1: Event Overview - The forum will take place from November 27-29, 2025, in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, and is co-hosted by DT New Materials and the National Key Laboratory of Bio-based Transportation Fuel Technology [2]. - The theme of the forum is "Gathering Talents from All Directions, Assisting Non-Grain Initiatives" [2]. Group 2: Organizing Institutions - The forum is organized by DT New Materials and the National Key Laboratory of Bio-based Transportation Fuel Technology, with prominent figures such as Zhu Jin and Li Zhenglong serving as co-chairs [3]. - Supporting institutions include Zhejiang University and various associations related to polymer science and bio-based materials [4]. Group 3: Featured Activities - The forum will feature a Non-Grain Biomass Youth Forum with over 20 cutting-edge reports highlighting innovations in non-grain biomass [6]. - A special session on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will invite over 20 industry representatives to discuss trends, technology routes, and sustainable certification [7]. Group 4: Keynote Speakers and Topics - Notable speakers include Ren Qilong from the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Xu Chunbao from Hong Kong City University, discussing topics related to biomass conversion and applications [8][9]. - The forum will also host thematic discussions on non-grain biomass chemicals, materials, and energy, featuring experts from various universities and research institutions [10]. Group 5: Innovation and Collaboration - The forum will include a technology showcase and matching session for 50 innovative projects in biomass utilization, promoting industry-academia collaboration [11]. - The National Key Laboratory of Bio-based Transportation Fuel Technology focuses on four core areas, including fiber ethanol technology and CO2-based polycarbonate technology [15].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of biomass conversion and utilization due to challenges such as resource depletion and environmental pollution, highlighting the complexity of biomass composition and structure, which necessitates graded conversion methods for effective chemical production [2]. Biomass Conversion Strategies - The article discusses the implementation of graded strategies for biomass conversion, focusing on hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin. These strategies enable the production of platform compounds like HMF and lactic acid, with a particular emphasis on achieving high stereoselectivity for chiral lactic acid and hydroxyacetic acid [3]. - The lignin priority strategy allows for the production of phenolic compounds and lignin-based materials, including structural color materials [3]. Research Contributions - Professor Hu Changwei's team at Sichuan University has conducted extensive research on the effective utilization of biomass resources, resulting in high-value products such as D-lactic acid, FDCA, furfural, high optical purity D-glyceric acid, biomass liquid fuels, and lignin structural color materials [3]. - Professor Hu will present a report titled "Research on the Preparation of High-Value Chemicals from Graded Conversion of Biomass" at the 2025 Non-Food Biomass High-Value Utilization Forum [3]. Forum Information - The 2025 Non-Food Biomass High-Value Utilization Forum will take place from November 27-29 in Hangzhou, featuring 50 reports and participation from industry experts [8]. - Keynote speakers include prominent figures from Zhejiang University and various research institutions, discussing innovations in biomass utilization and related technologies [8][9].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the advancements and market potential of bio-based polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) products by Xinhecheng (002001.SZ), highlighting their 100% bio-based content and performance parity with traditional products, which positions them well for demanding applications in sectors like electric vehicles and 5G communications [2][7]. Group 1: Product Development and Market Response - Xinhecheng's bio-based PPS has achieved 100% bio-based content and matches the mechanical performance of traditional PPS, making it suitable for harsh conditions [2][3]. - The company has entered a small-scale sales phase for its bio-based PPS, receiving positive market feedback [2]. - The bio-based PPS product has received ISCC certification, indicating its compliance with sustainability standards [2][4]. Group 2: Industry Landscape and Competitive Position - The global production of PPS is primarily dominated by the US, Japan, and China, with China's self-sufficiency rate increasing from 45% in 2020 to 64% in 2023 [3]. - Xinhecheng is the only domestic company capable of stable production across various grades of PPS, with a total capacity of 22,000 tons per year and plans to expand further based on market demand [6][7]. - The company has successfully integrated its PPS products into the supply chains of leading global firms like Tesla and CATL, enhancing its competitive edge in the international market [7]. Group 3: Challenges and Future Outlook - The bio-based PPS production faces challenges such as raw material refinement, immature synthesis technology, high production costs, and environmental concerns [6]. - Despite these challenges, Xinhecheng is positioned as the second-largest PPS producer globally, following Toray, and is actively exploring new application scenarios for its products [7][8].

Core Points - The fifth Non-Grain Biomass High-Value Utilization Forum (NFUCon 2025) will be held from November 27-29, 2025, in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, focusing on innovations and commercialization in the non-grain biomass sector [2][3] - The forum aims to gather representatives from government, enterprises, and experts to discuss key strategic directions such as biomass green pretreatment, non-grain sugars, biomass-based chemicals and materials, and biomass energy [2][3] Organizing Institutions - The forum is co-hosted by Ningbo DT New Materials Co., Ltd. and the National Key Laboratory of Bio-based Transportation Fuel Technology, with prominent figures from various academic and research institutions serving as co-chairs [3][4] Forum Agenda - The agenda includes a series of presentations on innovative processes for producing bio-based chemicals and materials, with topics ranging from the catalytic hydrogenation of lignin to the synthesis of bio-based aviation fuels [6][9] - A special session will focus on the sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) industry, inviting over 20 key industry players to discuss trends, technology routes, and sustainable certification [7][8] Technology Showcase - The forum will feature a technology showcase and matchmaking event, inviting submissions of 50 innovative projects with commercial viability in the biomass utilization field [11] Industry Collaboration - The forum emphasizes collaboration between academia, industry, and government to promote the large-scale application of non-grain biomass and support carbon neutrality goals [2][15]

Core Insights - The article discusses the implementation opinions issued by the State Council on accelerating the cultivation and open promotion of new application scenarios for large-scale applications, emphasizing the importance of these scenarios in bridging technology and industry [2][4]. Group 1: Biotechnology Sector - The opinions highlight the promotion of biotechnology applications in new materials, construction, energy, and environmental protection, focusing on areas such as bio-based material substitution, low-carbon conversion of bioenergy, and green preparation of natural products [3]. - The goal is to build an integrated development ecosystem for the biotechnology industry [3]. Group 2: Manufacturing Sector - The focus is on intelligent manufacturing, green manufacturing, service-oriented manufacturing, industrial biology, and industrial intelligence, with innovations in flexible production lines, smart factories, green factories, high-standard digital parks, and zero-carbon parks [3]. - The initiative encourages local governments and enterprises to cultivate application scenarios in industrial design, pilot testing, and inspection services [3]. Group 3: Modern Agriculture Sector - The article emphasizes the acceleration of application scenario construction in seed industry, enhancing scientific and technological support in design breeding and biological breeding, and launching digital application scenarios for breeding, seed production, and expansion [3]. Group 4: Policy Implementation - The opinions stress the need for deepening scene openness and fair and efficient allocation, promoting reforms in access, scenarios, and elements, and enhancing the capacity for application scenario support [4]. - Local governments and relevant departments are urged to strengthen coordination and increase efforts in scenario cultivation and openness, with a focus on practical implementation [4].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the advancements in bio-based ethylene glycol production from biomass resources, highlighting the significance of this technology for sustainable economic development and carbon neutrality goals [2]. Group 1: Bio-based Ethylene Glycol Production - Ethylene glycol is an important polyester monomer, traditionally produced from fossil raw materials like petroleum ethylene. The use of biomass resources such as straw offers a renewable, low-carbon alternative for producing bulk chemicals [2]. - The technology for producing bio-based ethylene glycol was pioneered by a team led by Academician Zhang Tao from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics in 2008, with the first pilot plant established in Puyang, Henan in early 2022. The plant successfully produced bio-based ethylene glycol in June 2022, achieving a seamless process flow [2]. - The bio-based ethylene glycol produced has been tested and found to have superior quality compared to coal-based ethylene glycol, with performance comparable to petroleum-based products. The next step involves scaling up the technology to a ten-thousand-ton industrial facility [2]. Group 2: Company Overview - Zhongke Baiyi Jin (Zhengzhou) New Energy Technology Co., Ltd., established in 2019, focuses on the industrialization of bio-based low-carbon diols and is a high-tech enterprise in the biomass energy development sector [3]. - The company will participate in the 2025 Non-grain Biomass High-Value Utilization Forum, where Chairman Zheng Mingyuan will present on the progress of straw sugar catalytic conversion technology for ethylene glycol [3][6]. Group 3: Forum and Industry Engagement - The 2025 Non-grain Biomass High-Value Utilization Forum will take place from November 27-29 in Hangzhou, featuring various sessions on bio-based chemicals and materials [8][9]. - The forum will showcase over 50 reports and include a special youth forum aimed at discovering innovative technological achievements in the field of non-grain biomass [8][9].

Core Insights - The article highlights the recent approval of a feed additive product, red yeast, by Jinhe Biological, which is expected to enhance the company's product structure and market competitiveness [2][3]. Product Development - Jinhe Biological has received the product approval number for red yeast, which is a feed additive, with the approval date set for September 15, 2025 [3]. - The approval of red yeast is anticipated to positively impact the company's operational performance and market competitiveness [3]. Key Ingredient and Benefits - Red yeast produces astaxanthin during fermentation, which is a powerful natural antioxidant with applications in aquaculture, feed industry, health care, and cosmetics [3]. - Astaxanthin is recognized for its superior antioxidant capacity compared to common antioxidants [3]. Production Methods - The primary sources of astaxanthin include natural extraction, chemical synthesis, and microbial fermentation, with the latter being favored for its safety, stability, and practicality [4]. - Red yeast is noted for its rapid growth cycle, short fermentation period, and ability to utilize various carbon sources, making it commercially valuable [4]. Company Strategy - Jinhe Biological has established a project with an annual production capacity of 3,000 tons of astaxanthin, indicating a strategic focus on research and innovation in synthetic biology applications [5].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the strong performance of Kasei Bio in the third quarter of 2025, showcasing significant growth in revenue and profit, driven by the increasing sales of long-chain dicarboxylic acid products and the expansion into bio-based composite materials [2][4]. Financial Performance - Kasei Bio reported a total revenue of 2.545 billion yuan for the first three quarters of 2025, representing a year-on-year increase of 14.90% [3]. - The net profit attributable to shareholders reached 451 million yuan, up 30.56% year-on-year [3]. - The company’s R&D investment totaled approximately 55.37 million yuan in the latest quarter, a decrease of 19.45% compared to the previous year [3]. Product and Market Development - Kasei Bio is a leading player in the long-chain dicarboxylic acid market, with its DC11-DC18 products dominating globally [4]. - The company has successfully replaced traditional chemical production methods with bio-manufacturing, enhancing product quality and reducing carbon emissions [4]. - Kasei Bio is expanding its market by developing bio-based polyamides and composites, which are expected to become a significant growth driver [4][5]. Green Composite Materials - Kasei Bio has initiated several projects in the bio-based composite materials sector, including the delivery of the world's first bio-based composite refrigerated container [5]. - The company’s bio-based composite materials are penetrating six major sectors, including new energy vehicles and clean energy, showcasing their versatility and environmental benefits [5]. - The shift towards green composite materials is driven by the need for sustainable solutions in response to carbon emission regulations [5]. Industry Trends and Events - The upcoming "2025 (Fourth) Green Composite Materials Forum" will focus on innovations in resin and fiber integration, aiming to address challenges in the industry and promote technological breakthroughs [6].