GreenLight Biosciences opens RNA production facility for the next generation of agricultural products

Rhea-AI Summary

GreenLight Biosciences has opened a new RNA production facility in Rochester, New York, covering 17,000 square feet. This facility is designed to manufacture enzymes and RNA for agricultural applications, including the protection of honeybees. The plant's initial capacity is set at 500 kg per year, with potential expansion to 1,000 kg and up to 100 metric tons annually. GreenLight aims to leverage its expertise to produce RNA at low costs, addressing challenges in agricultural usage. The company has raised approximately $235 million and is entering new markets following its merger with Environmental Impact Acquisition Corp. (ENVI).

Positive

• Opening of a new RNA production facility in Rochester, enhancing manufacturing capabilities.
• Initial production capacity of 500 kg per year, scalable to 1,000 kg; potential expansion to 100 metric tons.
• Established expertise to produce RNA at low costs, paving the way for broader agricultural applications.
• Company raised $235 million, indicating strong investor interest and financial stability.

Negative

• None.

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 22, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- GreenLight Biosciences, Inc., a biotechnology company focused on RNA research, design, and manufacturing for human, animal, and plant health, announced the opening of its manufacturing plant in Rochester, New York, Bloomberg reports.

The 17,000-square-foot facility will manufacture enzymes and RNA for a variety of agricultural applications, including the protection of honeybees.

While the fast rollout of mRNA vaccines helped change the course of the pandemic, RNA also has numerous potential applications in plant and animal health.

To date, however, the cost and scale of RNA production has constrained the development of its use in agriculture.

"GreenLight has developed a new way to produce commercial quantities of RNA at low cost for multiple applications," says chief operating officer Carole Cobb. "GreenLight's research know-how and production process allows us to address some of the challenges that formerly hindered RNA's application in agriculture."

Sustainable alternatives to chemical-based pesticides are needed to protect biodiversity, including beneficial insects and pollinators. GreenLight's agricultural solutions are designed to protect biodiversity through their specificity in targeting pests like the Varroa destructor mite, which contributes to the collapse of beehives, and the Colorado potato beetle, which destroys potato plants.

"Rochester has a proud history of being on the cutting edge of technological innovation, and GreenLight Biosciences continues that legacy," said Rep. Joe Morelle (D–N.Y.). "This new production facility will be critical to advancing RNA applications and strengthening our agricultural economy. I am excited to welcome GreenLight Biosciences into Eastman Business Park and look forward to their continued growth and success."

Located within the 1,200-acre Eastman Business Park, the Rochester manufacturing facility has an installed capacity at 500 kg per year, with ready expansion to 1,000 kg. The site and utility infrastructure supports a further expansion of RNA production up to 100 metric tons per year.

About GreenLight Biosciences, Inc. 
Founded in 2008, GreenLight has raised approximately $235 million to date and is rapidly expanding to new market opportunities in human health, animal health, and plant health. GreenLight harnesses the power of biology to develop RNA-based solutions for some of humanity's greatest challenges in human health through mRNA vaccines and therapeutics and in food production through RNA crop-protection products. The company's breakthrough cell-free RNA manufacturing platform, which is protected by numerous patents, allows for cost-effective and scalable production of RNA. For more information, visit https://www.greenlightbiosciences.com/

In August 2021, GreenLight Biosciences announced plans to become publicly listed through a business combination with Environmental Impact Acquisition Corp. (Nasdaq:ENVI).

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, with respect to the proposed transaction between GreenLight Biosciences, Inc. ("GreenLight") and Environmental Impact Acquisition Corp. ("ENVI"). These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words "believe," "project," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "plan," "may," "should," "will," "would," "will be," "will continue," "will likely result" and similar expressions. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to the risk that the transaction may not be completed in a timely manner or at all, which may adversely affect the price of ENVI's securities and the effect of the announcement or pendency of the transaction on GreenLight's business relationships, operating results, and business generally. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and ENVI and GreenLight assume no obligation and do not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact: 
Thomas Crampton
SVP & Head of Corporate Affairs
GreenLight Biosciences
tcrampton@greenlightbio.com
+44 7826 995794
+1-914-202-2762

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SOURCE GreenLight Biosciences

FAQ

What is the purpose of GreenLight Biosciences' new facility in Rochester?

The new facility is designed for the production of RNA and enzymes for agricultural applications, including protecting honeybees.

What is the production capacity of the new RNA facility in Rochester?

The facility has an initial production capacity of 500 kg per year, with plans for expansion up to 100 metric tons.

How much funding has GreenLight Biosciences raised to date?

GreenLight Biosciences has raised approximately $235 million.

When is GreenLight Biosciences expected to merge with Environmental Impact Acquisition Corp. (ENVI)?

GreenLight Biosciences announced plans to merge with ENVI in August 2021.

What agricultural challenges does GreenLight's RNA production aim to address?

GreenLight's RNA production aims to provide sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides, specifically targeting pests that harm beneficial insects and pollinators.