Happiness Capital, the financial branch of LKK Health Products Group, alongside two other venture capitalists, is investing in the development of a sustainable facility in China. This initiative, fueled by $47 million in funding, is part of a broader effort to combat climate change and enhance both indoor and urban air quality. This investment will empower Microalgaex, a Turkish biotech startup, to extend its Liquid Tree product line into the Chinese market by mid-2025.
Microalgaex's recent funding in a Series B round, which attracted investments from Chinese technological ventures and set the company's valuation at more than $250 million, underscores the growing interest in innovative environmental technologies. The funds are earmarked for the expansion of the Liquid Tree products, which are innovative systems employing phytoplankton and cyanobacteria. These systems are designed for both indoor and outdoor applications, utilizing a patented photobioreactor known for its high efficiency in carbon capture and storage. The project's goal is to create a sustainable, healthy, and accessible ecosystem in China's pollution-stricken urban environments.
Giuliano Regonesi, founder of Microalgaex, highlighted that this funding would also enable the production of 60,000 Liquid Tree units annually at the new plant. He noted that this expansion would not only boost the company's operational capacity but also propel it towards profitability by the next financial year.
Since its inception, Microalgaex has led the way with its Liquid Tree technology, a trademarked device based on microalgae designed to remove CO2 and greenhouse gases while simultaneously producing oxygen. This technology significantly improves air quality in indoor environments such as offices, schools, and gyms. Scientific research supports that the Liquid Tree not only reduces the risk of inflammation but also significantly decreases the likelihood of developing dementia and cardiological problems, as confirmed by COO Gokcen Ustundag.
The startup has garnered support from Tubitak, Turkey's Scientific and Technological Research Council, and renowned Turkish universities.
While the initial focus is on penetrating the Chinese market, Microalgaex has broader ambitions. The company is currently negotiating to expand its reach into European, GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), and American markets. These expansions are strategically important as they open new avenues for growth and demonstrate the universal appeal and necessity of sustainable technologies in tackling global environmental challenges.
The significance of the Liquid Tree extends beyond environmental impact. It has profound implications for public health and cognitive performance. By purifying the air, this technology enhances cognitive functions and overall well-being. Offices, schools, and public spaces equipped with Liquid Trees can expect not only a healthier environment but also improved productivity and reduced health-related absences.
Moreover, the fight against climate change is increasingly recognized as a fight for human health. As urban areas continue to grow, the need for sustainable solutions becomes more urgent. Liquid Tree products offer a practical solution for urban centers, aiming to reduce carbon footprints and mitigate the effects of urban pollution.
The future development plans of Microalgaex include exploring further technological advancements in Liquid Tree applications and expanding their market reach. The aim is to establish a global footprint, influencing urban development and public health policies worldwide. The expansion into diverse markets will also allow the company to adapt and tailor its technologies to meet local needs, thus maximizing impact.
In conclusion, the investment by Happiness Capital is a testament to the potential of innovative biotechnologies like the Liquid Tree to revolutionize environmental management and enhance public health. As Microalgaex moves forward, its developments will likely serve as benchmarks for sustainability in technology and business practices globally, underscoring the critical interlinkages between ecological sustainability and human health in the modern world.
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