GreenLight’s honeybee-saving RNA solution named finalist in World Changing Ideas Award

Rhea-AI Summary

BOSTON, May 10, 2022 – GreenLight Biosciences’ RNA-based solution for combating the Varroa destructor mite has been named a finalist for Fast Company’s 2022 World Changing Ideas Awards. This innovative approach is the first of its kind to directly target the mites, responsible for the decline of 90% of U.S. honeybee colonies. Early field trials indicate strong efficacy compared to traditional chemical methods. The solution is currently undergoing tests and is expected to seek EPA approval in 2022, highlighting GreenLight's commitment to supporting agricultural health and biodiversity.

Positive

• GreenLight's RNA-based solution is a finalist for Fast Company's 2022 World Changing Ideas Awards.
• The solution effectively lowers Varroa mite levels compared to leading chemical pest controls.
• Field tests are demonstrating strong efficacy in combatting the Varroa mite.

Negative

• None.

BOSTON, May 10, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- An RNA-based solution by GreenLight Biosciences designed to protect honeybees from the Varroa destructor mite was named a finalist by Fast Company for its 2022 World Changing Ideas Awards.

This is the first RNA-based solution that directly targets the mites, which have been detected in 90% of U.S. hives and which beekeepers call the primary threat to honeybee colonies today. In field trials, the solution lowers mite levels with strong efficacy compared to a leading chemical pest control.

“The technology at GreenLight, we’re testing it now, and we’ve seen it work,” said Barry Hart, owner of Hart Honey Farms in Georgia. A beekeeper since 1985, Hart said Varroa mites have decimated many of his hives.

GreenLight’s Varroa mite product candidate is currently undergoing tests in several states and is scheduled to be submitted for EPA approval in 2022.

About 3 million commercial honeybee colonies in the United States contribute to pollinating more than 100 crops annually, worth an estimated $15 billion. The Varroa mite reproduces in the same beehive cells as gestating bee larvae, grows up to parasitically feed on honeybees, and while doing so spreads disease, destroying colonies across the globe.

A limited number of chemical treatments are the current weapons in the fight against the Varroa mite. However, the traditional treatments come with side effects that may include bee death. Varroa mites have also developed resistance to several existing traditional chemical pesticides, which also require farmers to wear special protective gear and goggles to apply. GreenLight’s patented RNA technology only requires gloves.

“Crops pollinated by honeybees make up roughly a third of the food eaten by Americans, so declining populations of honeybees could have major consequences for food supply,” said Andrey Zarur, CEO of GreenLight Biosciences. “Our mission is to protect the species safely and effectively, and we are excited by Fast Company’s recognition for our achievements.”

GreenLight and other Fast Company nominees and award winners can be found here.

About GreenLight Biosciences
GreenLight Biosciences aims to address some of the world’s biggest problems by delivering on the full potential of RNA for human health and agriculture. Our RNA platform allows us to research, design, and manufacture for human, animal, and plant health. In human health, this includes messenger RNA vaccines and therapeutics. In agriculture, this includes RNA to protect honeybees and a range of crops. The company’s platform is protected by numerous patents. GreenLight’s human health product candidates are in the pre-clinical stage, and its product candidates for the agriculture market are in the early stages of development or regulatory review. GreenLight is a public benefit corporation that trades under the ticker GRNA on Nasdaq. For more information, visit https://www.greenlightbiosciences.com/ 

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

FAQ

What recognition has GreenLight Biosciences received for its RNA-based solution?

GreenLight Biosciences was named a finalist for Fast Company’s 2022 World Changing Ideas Awards.

What issue does GreenLight's solution address?

It addresses the Varroa destructor mite, which threatens honeybee populations in 90% of U.S. hives.

What are the expected next steps for GreenLight's Varroa mite product?

The product is undergoing tests and is scheduled to be submitted for EPA approval in 2022.

How does GreenLight's solution compare to traditional pest control methods?

It shows greater efficacy and requires only gloves for application, unlike traditional methods which can be harmful.

What importance do honeybees have in U.S. agriculture?

Honeybees pollinate over 100 crops annually, valued at approximately $15 billion.