£4.5 million investment for 'ground-breaking facility' at Swansea University
The facility is aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth and advancing green biotechnology in Wales.
The Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, officially launched the Natural Products BioHUB (NP BioHUB) at Swansea University on Thursday 7 November.
The facility is aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth and advancing green biotechnology in Wales.
Funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) with a £4.5m investment, the NP BioHUB will research how the use of natural products across agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing can help to foster healthier, greener, and more sustainable practices.
As the only centre within the UK Government’s Accelerating Green Economy programme focused on biotechnology, the University says the NP BioHUB "offers Wales a unique opportunity to lead in nature-based solutions and strengthen the bioeconomy".
"This initiative will not only foster the development of sustainable products but also create pathways for Welsh businesses to excel in emerging global markets, driving sales and growth."
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said: “I was delighted to visit Swansea University and see the fantastic work that it’s being done here."
"The funding from UKRI, backed by the UK Government, will help turn specialised research into innovative products that can contribute to a more sustainable future."
“The project is employing and training local people, helping to build prosperity in Swansea and the wider region, and contributing to the UK Government’s mission to grow the economy in Wales and across the UK.”
Professor Dan Eastwood, NP BioHUB project lead, said:
"The launch of the UKRI Natural Products Green Economy Centre signals an exciting time in the innovation and development of more sustainable products and processes from living cells and builds upon our world leading research strengths at Swansea University."
"I look forward to working with our industrial and civic partners to deliver a South Wales green biotech gateway with international reach and local benefits.”