The U.S. livestock industry produces 100 million tons of animal manure every year, which releases one million tons of phosphorus into our environment. The corrosive alkaline process used in galvanizing metal can be replaced by degreasing enzymes, which use one-tenth as much water and cut the resulting hydroxide sludge in half. The old process produces wastewater containing heavy metals. In the tanning process of animal hides and skins, protease is being used to reduce the use of sulphides by 40 percent. Using enzymes called xylanases can significantly reduce the amount of chlorine used in pulp bleaching for paper, resulting in a reduction of dioxin and other chlorine-containing chemicals in our lakes and streams.
Research is underway that utilizes enzymes in the conversion of agricultural biomass to ethanol.
Proteases are used by soap and detergent manufacturers to reduce phosphate pollution and to boost cleaning capability. In addition to saving non- renewable resources in the manufacturing process, the fiber produced with PDO is completely recyclable at the end of its product life. We've just begun to tap the potential for creating industrial enzymes that can perform effectively and help clean and maintain the environment. Biotechnology will play a critical role in the future health of our environment, and can help us achieve industrial and environmental sustainability. For more information and interviews, please call the contacts listed below.