THE WHAT? Kao has joined as a Founding Member of Genomatica (Geno), a venture to scale and commercialize plant-based alternatives to palm kernel oil.

THE DETAILS Kao’s investment adds to Geno’s previously announced US$120 million venture with Unilever and increases the production capability. Christophe Schilling, Geno CEO said, “We’re excited to welcome Kao as a founding member to our palm kernel oil alternative venture along with Unilever. Kao joining this venture is another example of Geno collaborating with world-leading brands and value-chain partners to commercialize sustainable solutions at scale that support traceable and responsible sourcing. Together, we will increase the supply chain resiliency our planet and people need today and for the future. Kao’s deep expertise in the home and personal care markets enables us to support other manufacturers in meeting their sustainability commitments and supplying the rising consumer demand for sustainable products.”

THE WHY? The venture will strengthen supply chain resiliency in the home and personal care markets by providing additional sources of responsibly sourced palm oil alternatives as well as help reduce the carbon footprint of palm-derived ingredients and meet consumer demand for more sustainable products.