In a bold step toward a more sustainable life science industry, we have been working hard with the University of Wisconsin–Madison and Genentech (a member of the Roche Group). Together, we are exploring the potential of STRAP™, a novel solvent-based recycling technology, to transform how single-use bioprocessing products are handled at the end of their lifecycle.
Why this matters
Single-use technologies have revolutionized biomanufacturing, offering flexibility, sterility, efficiency, and scalability. But there's a catch: 94% of single-use consumables are incinerated or landfilled, with only 6% currently being recycled.1 That 94% contributes to environmental strain and resource loss.
The challenge? These products contain complex parts: silicone, magnetic stirrers, and multilayer materials made of various polymers, that are notoriously difficult to recycle.
For our customers, a single 2000L drug substance production run can generate one to two metric tons of waste, with approximately half of that being mixed plastics. That’s a staggering amount underscoring the urgency for sustainable solutions.
Enter STRAP™: A game-changer for recycling
Developed by the George Huber group at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, STRAP™ (Solvent-Targeted Recovery and Precipitation) is a cutting-edge process that selectively dissolves and separates materials for reuse. Cytiva and Roche are now working closely with the university to evaluate STRAP™’s feasibility for recycling biopharmaceutical single-use products.
Early results are promising: biobags have already been successfully recycled using STRAP™, with strong environmental and financial promise. Notably, the process to regenerate polyethylene (PE) via STRAP™ generates about 60% fewer emissions compared to producing original PE – a significant reduction in carbon footprint.
Keep your eyes peeled for a full report on these findings to be published soon.
What makes this innovation great
This initiative is more than a technical breakthrough, it’s a strategic move toward a circular economy in biotech. Here’s why:
- Low environmental impact: STRAP™ offers a cleaner, more sustainable alternative to incineration or landfill.
- Material reuse: Reclaimed materials are suitable for manufacturing, closing the loop on plastic waste.
- Circular economy in action: This initiative is a major step toward a circular solution for single-use plastics in bioprocessing.
What’s next?
Cytiva is inviting other industry leaders and customers to join us in building a broader sustainability consortium. Together, we can scale this solution and reshape the future of biomanufacturing.
Xiaobo Dong, Principal Sustainability Specialist: ‘This initiative is a testament to our commitment to environmental responsibility. By addressing the end-of-life stage of its products, we are not only enhancing our portfolio but also helping customers meet their own sustainability targets.
In a world where innovation and responsibility must go hand in hand, STRAP™ is much more than a new recycling method – it’s a symbol of what’s possible when science, industry, and purpose align.