What are bio-based chemicals and enzymes?

Paper: GS -III, Subject: Science and Technology, Topic: Bio-Technology, Issue: Bio-Based Chemicals and Enzymes.

Context:

Bio-based chemicals and enzymes have gained policy attention as India aims to build a sustainable bioeconomy and reduce dependence on imported petrochemicals.

  • The government has identified this sector as a priority under the BioE3 policy of the Department of Biotechnology to promote green manufacturing and value addition to agricultural resources.

What is Bio-Based Chemicals and Enzymes?

  • Definition: Bio-based chemicals are industrial chemicals derived from biological feedstocks such as sugarcane, corn, starch, or biomass residues. They are typically produced through fermentation or enzymatic processes.
  • Examples: Common bio-based chemicals include: Organic acids (e.g., lactic acid), Bio-alcohols, Solvents, Surfactants, Intermediates for plastics, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals
  • Enzymes: Biological catalysts used in various industries, including:
    • Detergents, Food processing, Pharmaceuticals, Textiles, Pulp and paper and Biomanufacturing
  • Benefits of Enzymes: Enzymes operate efficiently at lower temperatures and pressures, leading to reduced energy consumption and lower emissions.
India's Bio-Based Chemicals & Enzymes: Need, Status, Global Context, & Challenges

India can lead in bio-based chemicals using agricultural strength, fermentation expertise, and policy support, but must overcome cost, feedstock, and market adoption challenges to reduce petrochemical dependence and achieve sustainable growth.

Source: (The Hindu)

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