UPDATE: Bygen, an innovative Australian agritech company, is rapidly expanding its operations in Southeast Asia, particularly in Vietnam and Malaysia, to capitalize on the region’s growing demand for sustainable technology. This development comes as Australia intensifies its economic strategy in Southeast Asia, aiming to increase trade and investment by 2040.
The recent report titled Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, released in September 2023, underscores the importance of agriculture and food as key sectors for growth. As Southeast Asia’s economy surges, the need for high-quality protein and sustainable products presents a crucial opportunity for Australian businesses.
Bygen, based in Melbourne, specializes in producing activated carbon from sustainable materials, significantly reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions compared to traditional methods. The company utilizes nut shells and forestry by-products through a patented Low-Temperature Activation (LTA) process. This innovative method not only cuts production costs by 60% but also sequesters carbon, providing a cleaner alternative for industries relying on activated carbon.
Cameron Griffiths, Bygen’s Chief Commercial Officer, stated, “Our technology not only produces high-quality activated carbon but also addresses environmental concerns, making it a vital solution for industries in both Australia and Southeast Asia.” The technology is now being tested in Vietnam, where it is set to aid local carbon markets and help meet emissions-reduction targets.
In Southeast Asia, Bygen is also exploring the potential of local agricultural residues such as sugarcane bagasse and coffee hulls to produce activated carbon for water treatment and air purification. The pilot project funded by the Net Zero Challenge aims to establish local production partnerships that will contribute to cleaner water and air, aligning with regional decarbonization goals.
The urgency of addressing environmental impact in agriculture has never been greater. As Australian agriculture faces scrutiny over its sustainability, Bygen’s advancements in sustainable farming practices in Southeast Asia could set a precedent for the industry back home. Griffiths expressed optimism about the broader implications, noting that the company’s success could lead to economic benefits for Australian primary producers and contribute to local job creation.
With potential applications ranging from drinking water treatment to wastewater purification, Bygen’s activated carbon products are already making waves in Australia. As the company prepares for further expansions, Griffiths emphasized the importance of integrating sustainable practices into the core of Australian agriculture.
The next steps for Bygen include finalizing new manufacturing sites in Australia and expanding operations in Southeast Asia, particularly focusing on regions with abundant biomass. Griffiths confirmed, “We are strategically expanding to ensure that we remain a global leader in sustainable carbon production.”
As Bygen continues to innovate and expand, its story exemplifies the potential for Australian agritech to lead in sustainability on a global scale. The implications for local economies and the environment are significant, making this a development to watch closely.
Stay tuned for more updates on Bygen’s progress as it seeks to transform the landscape of sustainable agriculture in Southeast Asia and beyond.
