Dr. Patricio Cano, a seasoned chemical engineer with a rich background in bioprocesses and sustainability, shared his insights on the evolving field of biotechnology during SECRETed’s Social Awareness Interview. From his early academic achievements to his current role at Blue Synergy, Dr. Cano’s journey reflects a deep commitment to leveraging biotechnology for environmental and industrial advancements.
Cano emphasises the significant advantages of using biocompounds and bio-based products across various industries, including pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. One of the primary benefits he highlights is the energy efficiency of bioprocesses. “Bioprocesses happen at room temperature,” Dr. Cano explains, contrasting this with traditional chemical processes that often require high temperatures. This natural efficiency can promote industrial growth in less industrialised regions, such as southern Spain, where the climate is conducive to bioprocesses. Additionally, Cano points out the selectivity and specificity of microorganisms used in bioprocesses. “If you get a good strain, these strains are selective and do what you direct them to,” he notes, aligning this with the classical vision of catalysis in chemistry. This precision can lead to more efficient and targeted production processes.
Despite the promising benefits, Cano acknowledges several limitations and challenges in the field of biotechnology. A significant issue is the lack of knowledge and expertise among personnel. “Biotechnology and process engineering with a focus on bioprocesses are still new in Spain,” he says, highlighting the need for better education and training in this area. Dr. Cano’s experience teaching biotechnology revealed that many students confuse it with biomedicine, underscoring the necessity for curriculum refinement. Another challenge is the scaling of bioprocesses. While Dr. Cano believes that understanding bioprocesses can mitigate scaling issues, he admits that it remains a hurdle for many industries. Additionally, regulatory obstacles, particularly concerning genetic engineering, pose significant barriers. “There’s still a knowledge and legal gap,” Cano remarks, pointing out the fear and uncertainty surrounding genetically modified strains.
Cano envisions a future where biotechnology plays a crucial role in creating sustainable and environmentally friendly industrial processes. He advocates for a multidisciplinary approach to overcome challenges, emphasising the importance of collaboration among experts in various fields. “Generating synergies from this multidisciplinary angle is positive,” he asserts, highlighting the potential of European consortia to drive innovation. Moreover, Dr. Cano believes that public education is vital to gaining acceptance for biotechnological advancements. He draws parallels with everyday bioprocesses like yogurt and wine production, which have been safely consumed for centuries. “People just need to know it’s safe,” he says, stressing the importance of demystifying biotechnology for the general public.
Dr. Patricio Cano’s insights provide a comprehensive overview of the current state and future potential of biotechnology. While there are notable benefits, such as energy efficiency and process specificity, the field also faces significant challenges, including knowledge gaps and regulatory hurdles. However, with a collaborative and educational approach, Cano is optimistic about the transformative impact of biotechnology on industries and the environment.
