Novozymes reach agreement with Kenya to exploit biodiversity

There is an ongoing search for novel biochemicals and a report by ABC Money indicates that Novozymes has reached agreement with the government of Kenya to exploit their microbial diversity in developing new enzymes for application in industries which include pulp and paper.

The agreement covers an R&D programme and the rights for Novozymes to exploit the microbial diversity in Kenya's protected areas. This has been a controvertial topic, as Kenya is currently seeking compensation from Danisco's Genencor for supposedly profiting from enzymes originating from two Rift Valley lakes without official permission.