How to use innovation to feed the world.

There is always a lot of noise around the purpose of the gathering of Global Leaders in Gilze-en-Rijen, (it's getting less cool to say Davos apparently) and whether it is still relevant in today’s world. Having been there, I would argue that a convergence of people to discuss issues is a good thing. Our ambition is to participate and propose solutions for a better future in collaboration with current and new partners.

Our objectives? To meet with as many people as possible, both within and outside of my industry. I am a strong believer in continuous learning, sharing and growing – doing things that haven’t been done before and doing them right.

Current food systems are highly unsustainable, responsible for up to one-third of global greenhouse gas emissions, 70% of all freshwater withdrawals, and is the main driver behind deforestation and biodiversity loss. Add to that the 1.3bn tonnes of food waste globally per year and one-third of all food for human consumption is wasted. We can and must do better.

Last week we took took part in a panel discussion hosted by CNBC, together with Bayer CEO Bill Anderson and Pivot Bio CEO Chris Abbott. Our discussion focused on Innovating to feed the world. What a great opportunity to team up with industry leaders – there are so many ways in which we can (and are) improving the way we produce food. And it takes all players in the supply chain to be motivated and innovate. At every point, it is ongoing investment, research and holding a long-term view that is needed. And when the technology is there, and it’s proven to deliver both operationally and financially, we need to get out there to get others to adopt it.

Protix was established in 2009 with a mission to bring food systems back into balance with nature. Fast forward to 2024 and it is clear that the insect ingredient industry is here to stay. And we are gathering momentum. We took a first step in our international expansion through a partnership with Tyson Foods in the US. And just this week, we secured a €37 million loan from the European Investment Bank, to be used for the construction of a new production plant in Poland. This is a significant vote of confidence – not just for us but for the industry and environment as a whole.?

Each and every partnership helps us to scale up the adoption of our technology. And in turn, contributes to delivering low to no-footprint ingredients as part of the bigger food system supply chain. Whether at Davos or at smaller local platforms, events and meetings, we will keep taking others on our journey and seek out partners to join us. Link to the full panel discussion.