In a world increasingly focused on reducing our carbon footprint, Deakin Bio, with their groundbreaking bio-based tiles, is working at the forefront of innovation in sustainability. These tiles have the potential to offer a 94% reduction in carbon footprint and incorporate over 95% recycled materials, presenting a compelling alternative to traditional ceramics. Founder Aled Roberts' academic career initially began in synthetic proteins, exploring their application in fibre production, before he moved into researching adhesives. This ultimately led to the development of a novel material suitable for tile manufacturing. Unlike traditional ceramic tiles that undergo an energy-intensive firing process, Deakin Bio tiles are bio-based, inspired by natural materials like seashells and pearls. These tiles are primarily mineral, bonded together by a small amount of biopolymer protein, which serves as an adhesive. The production method is akin to dehydration-induced setting, where the protein changes from liquid to solid - think of the irreversible transformation seen when frying an egg. This process eliminates the need for firing, significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional ceramic manufacturing, which generates 19 million tonnes of CO₂ annually in Europe alone. Deakin Bio tiles already meet industry standards for strength and functionality, though some challenges remain, particularly in areas such as scratch and abrasion resistance. Thanks to a £700,000 investment from Green Angel Ventures, Aled is now looking to scale up the company and meet those remaining industry standards. By reimagining tile production, Deakin Bio not only offers a sustainable alternative but also sets a precedent for future advancements in green manufacturing, with the potential to allow for 3D printing or casting into more complex shapes, opening the door to a range of products beyond traditional tiles.