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From high school science project to $18.3M: AI-accelerated enzymes are comingfor fast fashion’s plastic waste

UK startup Epoch Biodesign, founded in 2019, has raised $18.3 million in Series A funding to scale production of AI-accelerated enzymes for plastic waste recycling. The facility will process 150 tonnes/year, aiming for commercial output by 2028. Their work addresses the plastic crisis, leveraging AI for enzyme design, and partnering with Inditex to improve sustainability in fast fashion.

Key points

  • Epoch Biodesign, founded by Jacob Nathan during high school, raised $18.3 million in Series A funding.
  • Their technology focuses on developing enzymes to break down specific plastics like polyester and nylon.
  • The new funding will facilitate the establishment of a production facility capable of processing 150 tonnes of waste annually.
  • Biorecycling is positioned as a sustainable alternative to conventional plastic recycling, addressing cost and efficiency.
  • AI accelerates enzyme design, reducing the time needed for discovery from millions of years to days or weeks.
  • Strategic partnership with Inditex, aiming to provide sustainable materials for fast fashion brands.
  • Projected commercial production by 2028 to further reduce plastic pollution.

Why it matters

  • The global plastic waste crisis, with 400 million tonnes produced annually and the majority not recycled.
  • Rising regulatory pressure on businesses to adopt sustainable practices amid growing awareness of plastic pollution.
  • The application of AI in biotechnologies shows parallels with broader IT trends, such as automation and smart materials in 2025.
  • Other startups are addressing plastic waste through various technologies, highlighting a trend towards innovative recycling solutions.
  • Sustainability in the fashion industry is increasingly critical, influencing corporate investments and partnerships.

Epoch Biodesign's innovative approach to enzyme-driven biorecycling addresses the significant global plastic waste issue, leveraging AI for fast and efficient solutions while collaborating with major industry players to promote sustainability.