San Diego-based Algenesis Labs has received the 2026 ACS Green Chemistry Challenge Award in the Small Business category for its Soleic platform of plant-based polyurethane materials. The biodegradable material family is designed to deliver the same performance as conventional fossil fuel-based polyurethane while helping reduce microplastic pollution.

Soleic offers key performance characteristics such as flexibility, durability, and abrasion resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Unlike many bio-based materials, its plant-based raw materials are sourced without competing with food production. In addition to providing a biodegradable alternative, Soleic is manufactured using a process that produces 50–60% lower carbon emissions compared to conventional plastic materials.

“Winning the Small Business category is proof that solving one of the world's most urgent pollution challenges does not require a massive research and development budget,” said Dr. Stephen Mayfield, CEO and Co-founder of Algenesis Corporation. “We developed Soleic to address the growing problem of microplastics accumulating in our oceans, soil, and ultimately in our bodies. This recognition from the American Chemical Society confirms both the strength of the science and the importance of bringing these solutions to market.”