The German deep-tech start-up harnessing microbes and green chemistry to create biodegradable alternatives to microplastics raised €16 million in Series A funding.WHO: Founded in 2019 by Dr. Prateek Mahalwar and Srinivas Karuturi, BIOWEG is a German biotechnology company using precision fermentation and green chemistry to create high-performance, bio-based and biodegradable ingredients that replace intentionally added microplastics and fossil-derived polymers. By converting food-industry side streams into high-purity bacterial cellulose and tailoring it into functional materials, BIOWEG supports reformulation in personal care, home care and agriculture. BIOWEG’s product families include Micbeads (micro-powders), RheoWeg (rheology control), and AgriWeg (seed and fertilizer coatings).WHY: The capital will support scale-up, commercialization, and construction of BIOWEG’s first-of-its-kind bacterial cellulose plant in Germany and accelerate market entry across Europe. IN THEIR OWN WORDS: Dr. Prateek Mahalwar, co-founder & CEO, BIOWEG, said, “Today’s funding allows us to move decisively into industrial manufacturing and to support customers as they transition away from microplastics. Our focus is on matching and expanding polymer-level performance with bio-based, biodegradable ingredients produced at European scale.”Marc Lechantre, Partner, Axeleo Capital, added, “BIOWEG combines a compelling regulatory tailwind with a credible industrialisation plan and strong customer pull on key markets. We’re backing the team as it's perfectly positioned within the ongoing transformation of supply chains towards microplastic-free products.