GreenPharming – Innovation and Sustainability in Pharmaceutical Production

GreenPharming is developing a plant-based platform for the sustainable production of pharmaceutically relevant proteins at the Schwarze Pumpe Industrial Park. The project focuses on producing biological active substances in tobacco plants while integrating principles of circular economy, climate neutrality, quality optimization, and safe process design. In doing so, GreenPharming combines biomedical research, plant biotechnology, and application-oriented research infrastructure, contributing to the transformation of Lusatia toward a resource-efficient green economy. The project runs from 1 July 2024 to 31 December 2026 and is funded by the Just Transition Fund (JTF) as well as by tax revenues on the basis of the budget adopted by the Saxon State Parliament. The funding comprises an application-oriented research project with a maximum grant of €1,208,449.44 and an infrastructure measure with a maximum grant of €3,018,367.89, amounting to a total approved funding volume of up to €4,226,817.33.

Project Goals

GreenPharming aims to produce biopharmaceutical substances, such as antibodies and cytokines, from renewable raw materials in a closed, eco-friendly system. The vision: a sustainable alternative to conventional production methods that benefits both the environment and the economy.

Scientific Approach

• Plant-Based Drug Production: Plants, such as tobacco, serve as expression systems due to their safety compared to animal cell systems (free of human pathogens) and their ability to produce complex proteins in a cost-effective way.
• State-of-the-Art Technologies:
  • Innovative molecular methods like CRISPR/Cas for drug design.
  • Transient transformation techniques such as Agrobacterium-mediated DNA transfer and vacuum infiltration for targeted protein production.
  • Quality and functionality assessment through advanced analytical methods (e.g., mass spectrometry, HPLC, and cell-based assays).
• Climate Neutrality via Circular Economy: Plant residues are converted into biochar, which can be used as soil substrate or raw material in other processes. The energy needs of the facilities are met through renewable sources like photovoltaics and heat pumps.

Regional Impact

The project is implemented in the Lausitz region and contributes to restructuring a former coal-dependent area. Climate-friendly production and the integration of residue utilization establish sustainable value chains while creating new jobs and collaboration opportunities within the region.

Collaboration and Expertise

GreenPharming is built on an interdisciplinary approach and the collaboration of leading scientists:

• Prof. Ali El-Armouche (TU Dresden): Optimization and validation of pharmaceutical compounds.
• Prof. Michael Beckmann (TU Dresden): Development of a climate-neutral system based on circular economy principles and renewable energy.
• Prof. Karin Fester (University of Applied Sciences Zittau/Görlitz): Expertise in plant-based biotechnology.

Long-Term Perspectives

The project offers not only a platform for innovative research and education but also opportunities to foster regional companies and start-ups in sustainable biotechnology. With energy-autonomous production and a focus on circular economy, GreenPharming sets new standards in pharmaceutical manufacturing and strengthens the region as a hub for innovative green technologies.

GreenPharming exemplifies how science, technology, and sustainability can merge to address future challenges while improving the quality of life for people worldwide.

Project Team