Turning the tide in plastic waste with algae: a story of Selen Şenal

Plastic waste is projected to nearly triple by 2060, rising from 353 million tonnes in 2019 to around 1 billion tonnes. Alarmingly, only 17% of this plastic waste is expected to be recycled by 2060 (Global Plastics Outlook, OECD). Amid this growing crisis, bioplastic is a promising solution. Derived from renewable biomass such as corn, sugarcane, or cellulose, many bioplastics offer the added benefit of biodegradability or compostability. The global bioplastics market is expanding rapidly and is expected to reach USD 44.3 billion by 2030, compared to USD 14.1 billion in 2024 (Europlas). Advancements in bioplastics research are unveiling promising new solutions – one of which emerges from deep under the water.

Selen Şenal, CEO and Founder of Algbio, uses algae to create a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based materials used in plastics. The innovation process transforms carbon emissions and wastewater into valuable algae-based bioplastics. From packaging and textiles to automotive and 3D printing, the BioFlocean solution can be used in diverse sectors.

The idea stems from Selen’s passion for solving environmental challenges using biotechnology, and brought her first place in the RIS LEADERS Competition 2024. The competition is designed to support women innovators from EIT Regional Innovation Scheme (RIS) countries, developing solutions to manufacturing-related challenges with a strong environmental, economic and societal impact.

Selen Şenal, CEO and Founder of Algbio

From lab innovation to environmental impact

Working in a lab with microalgae, Selen saw their incredible potential to capture carbon, treat wastewater and produce sustainable products. Yet these solutions weren’t used at scale. The turning point was realising the inefficiency of existing methods for carbon capture and bioplastic, during a project she worked on. This inspired her to create a practical, scalable solution that transforms CO2 and waste into valuable algal bioplastic.

BioFlocean advances net-zero emissions and zero waste production. Available as granules for plastic injection and filaments for 3D printing, it offers enhanced thermal stability for high-temperature applications. As BioFlocean does not contain petroleum-based polymers, it demonstrates enhanced thermal stability, which is ideal for high-temperature applications, extending product lifespan and performance. The process can be adopted by various industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and improve sustainability practices.

Now, Selen has a patent application for the BioFlocean production method. However, early on, moving from concept to implementation required significant investment in research, prototyping and testing. Selen put a laser focus on grants and accelerator programmes to secure critical financing. Building strong partnerships and showcasing the environmental and economic impact of their solution was another piece of the puzzle to gaining credibility and attracting early supporters.

Bioplastics by Algbio

One key breakthrough was the development of a more efficient production process for the algae-based bioplastics. With the funding and expert mentorship, the team optimised their bioplastic formulation, reducing production costs while improving quality and scalability. Selen connected with an industrial partner who provided valuable insights and resources, allowing the team to take their innovation closer to market readiness. “This experience not only shaped our business strategy but also reinforced our confidence in the impact of our solutions,” stated Selen.

Beyond the tangible benefits, Selen remarked: “RIS LEADERS Competition is an empowering experience that highlights the contributions of women in innovation, providing inspiration and encouragement to push boundaries. For any women-led startup aiming to make an impact, this competition is a fantastic opportunity to take their vision to the next level.”

While taking risks and asking for help is part of the entrepreneurial journey, Selen’s advice to other women is to also ‘celebrate your unique perspective and resilience – it’s your greatest strength in building something impactful.’

Next step is revolutionising the way industry approaches sustainability

Selen’s vision for BioFlocean is to set a new standard for carbon capture and bioplastic materials, inspiring industries to adopt circular economy principles. Currently, the team is focused on market expansion, connecting with potential partners and customers in the US market. Another big task to tackle is scaling production and integrating their technologies into industrial applications through strategic partnerships. The team is working on enhancing their product line, particularly algal bioplastics and biofuels, to meet global sustainability demands. The ultimate goal is to drive widespread adoption of BioFlocean technologies and make a measurable environmental impact.

Ultimately, Selen wants to see a world where environmental challenges are opportunities for innovation and growth, creating a cleaner, more resilient future for everyone.