With a little tinkering with their DNA, we can make bacteria produce a variety of molecules. Even petrochemical molecules belong to the possibilities. Though there are still obstacles to overcome, bacteria could offer a route to a sustainable petrochemical industry.

In the pharmaceutical and food industries, micro-organisms are common production vehicles. Citric acid for soft drinks, lactic acid in cheese and yoghurt; all made by bacteria and fungi. But researchers are starting to gradually modify bacteria to produce a variety of completely different molecules. Molecules that we currently make from petroleum, such as ethyl acetate or isopropanol.

Are bacteria the key to a sustainable petrochemical industry? According to Ruud Weusthuis, professor of microbial biotechnology at Wageningen University, there are many opportunities to make petrochemicals more sustainable. Bacteria are certainly one of them. ‘Whichever way you look at it, we need to find more sustainable raw materials and production methods. And because bacteria can carry out so many different chemical