AlgaEnergy becomes first microalgae-biotech firm to achieve B Corp status
The Madrid-based firm now joins a number of food and nutrition-based firms to be similarly recognised and includes Danone, Ben & Jerry's and Innocent.
"We are all elated to celebrate this achievement," says Augusto Rodríguez-Villa, founder of AlgaEnergy.
"We began the rigorous certification process in 2019. Becoming a B Corp is not only a first for our industry sector. It is also a recognition that our company and our employees value people and our planet first."
Formed back in 2007, AlgaEnergy produces microalgae-based ingredients used in nutritional supplements that are feted for their high protein content and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids.
In October 2020, together with Syngenta and Novozymes, AlgaEnergy was selected to lead two new working groups launched by the European Biostimulant Industry Council (EBIC).
Here, AlgaEnergy was tasked to work towards a healthier and more sustainable food system in the European Union, which is also a cornerstone of the European Green Deal.
Social & environmental standards
With the B Corp accreditation, the firm is now recognised as one that meets a rigorous set of social and environmental standards that represent a commitment to goals outside of shareholder profit.
These standards include responsibilities related to energy supplies, waste and water use, worker compensation, working conditions, employee benefits, equal opportunities and diversity. Verification is independently verified at least every three years.
Barcelona-based B Lab, Spain's official B Corp certifying agency also counts European tea brand Teterum and adhara organic as fellow B Corp members, in an initiative designed to build a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
“We are delighted to welcome AlgaEnergy to the B Corp community,” says Pablo Sanchez, Executive Director of B Lab Spain,
"This is a movement of companies that are committed to changing how business operates, who believe business really can be a force for good."
