ZymoChem: Pioneering Sustainable Materials in Vermont
Founded in 2015 by UC Berkeley scientists Harshal Chokhawala and Jon Kuchenreuther, ZymoChem is transforming the materials industry by developing biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based products. The company’s innovative fermentation technology relies on proprietary carbon-conserving microbes to create bio-based materials for various applications, including hygiene products, textiles, and coatings.
“ZymoChem’s approach offers a sustainable alternative to carbon-intensive manufacturing,” said Kuchenreuther, the company’s chief scientific officer. Senior leader Joe Giallanella, who oversees the Branded Products division from Burlington, adds that hygiene products are particularly wasteful, with items like diapers taking over 500 years to decompose.
Giallanella was drawn to ZymoChem when they developed a bio-based superabsorbent polymer, an essential ingredient in infant diapers. Recognizing the environmental potential, he proposed establishing a Vermont satellite office to leverage the state’s sustainability-focused community. This idea gained traction, aligning with ZymoChem’s ambition to grow its operations in a region committed to responsible practices.
With significant funding, including contributions from global brands like lululemon and Toyota Ventures, ZymoChem is on a rapid growth trajectory, expanding its workforce from 24 to 58 employees in just two years. The company launched its first product, BAYSE™, in 2024, signaling a major advancement in the $145 billion hygiene industry.
ZymoChem’s commitment to sustainability is further solidified by its recent status as a Public Benefit Corporation and its B Corp™ certification. Giallanella emphasizes the importance of balancing profitability with societal and environmental impacts. The company is also seeking new production facilities, bolstered by a $1.57 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense.
As ZymoChem continues to innovate, it exemplifies how local ecosystems like Vermont can foster impactful, sustainable solutions for the future.
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