Arborea, a company operating jointly in the UK and Portugal, has announced the successful completion of a €5 million funding round aimed at advancing its microalgae production capabilities. The funding, which was led by Indico Capital Partners with participation from Banco Português de Fomento (BPF), will be used to prepare Arborea’s inaugural facility for commercial-scale production of multi-functional proteins.
The company utilizes its proprietary Biosolar Leaf™ technology, which allows for the efficient cultivation of photosynthetic microorganisms, including marine microalgae. This method does not require agricultural land or feedstocks derived from agriculture, thus reducing the environmental pressures associated with traditional food production systems.
Arborea claims that its production process is carbon-negative and helps mitigate climate change by capturing carbon dioxide and utilizing sunlight as a raw material, while also generating oxygen during photosynthesis. The technology is positioned to provide sustainable protein alternatives designed to enhance global nutrition without further straining natural resources.
Julian Melchiorri, CEO of Arborea, emphasized the importance of this funding in achieving the company’s goals related to food security and environmental sustainability. “We are committed to making a significant impact on food production through our innovative approach,” he stated.
Stephan de Moraes of Indico Capital Partners expressed confidence in Arborea’s potential to transform the food industry, particularly in offering alternatives to animal protein. “This investment will be crucial in consolidating Arborea’s position in the market, fostering sustainable practices in food production,” he said.
