Syensqo, a global leader in advanced materials and specialty chemicals, has announced the inauguration of its most advanced and expansive microbiology, (eco-)toxicology, and biotechnology laboratory in Lyon, France. As the company’s largest microbiology lab worldwide, this state-of-the-art facility represents a significant milestone in Syensqo’s commitment to accelerating the development of safe, eco-friendly, and sustainable solutions.

This new 550 m² facility is not just a physical expansion—it serves as a global reference center for biodegradation and (eco-)toxicology testing. It enhances Syensqo’s in-house capabilities to test for environmental and human safety from the earliest stages of product development, all under the umbrella of the company’s Renewable Materials and Biotechnology Growth Platform. With this strategic investment, Syensqo is reinforcing its leadership in driving innovation in line with circular economy and green chemistry principles.

The lab integrates advanced analytical tools, machine learning models, and automated workflows to significantly improve testing throughput and data precision. These capabilities allow for the development of “biodegradable-by-design” solutions tailored for high-impact sectors including beauty care, home care, agrochemicals, adhesives, and materials. By fostering early-stage testing and predictive insights, the lab is set to reduce time-to-market for new sustainable formulations while strengthening regulatory readiness.

One of the facility’s standout achievements lies in its commitment to environmental stewardship. During its construction, Syensqo implemented sustainability-focused design measures that led to a 35% decrease in net power consumption and a 36% reduction in CO₂ emissions. These measures align with Syensqo’s broader vision to lead by example in industrial sustainability and green infrastructure practices.

The lab is currently preparing for GLP (Good Laboratory Practices) accreditation, expected in the second half of the year. Once accredited, it will not only serve Syensqo’s internal R&D but also provide contract testing services to partners and customers seeking to evaluate the safety and environmental impact of their own materials. With its advanced setup, the lab will enable a tenfold increase in biodegradation testing capacity compared to 2021, making it a cornerstone of Syensqo’s external collaboration model.

Biodegradation testing assesses how quickly and effectively a substance, such as a chemical or polymer, can be broken down by microorganisms under environmental conditions. It is a key metric in determining whether a product can safely decompose in soil or aquatic environments, minimizing its ecological footprint.

Ecotoxicity testing examines the impact of substances on ecosystems, including aquatic and terrestrial organisms such as plants, animals, and microorganisms. These tests are critical for evaluating potential environmental hazards and are a foundational element of compliance with global environmental regulations.

Toxicity testing, on the other hand, focuses on the impact of chemicals on human health. It investigates how exposure to a substance might affect bodily systems and ensures that products are safe for users by identifying potential risks at varying levels of contact or ingestion.

By scaling up its infrastructure and embedding sustainability in both product development and facility operations, Syensqo continues to pioneer a science-driven path toward a safer, cleaner, and more circular future. This new lab stands as a testament to the company’s bold vision and its ability to operationalize environmental responsibility without compromising on performance or innovation.

Source – Syensqo