Agribusiness company Bunge and plant genetics business GDM have created a joint venture called Enerseed to develop high-quality, novel oilseeds as feedstocks for the growing low-carbon renewable fuels market.

Enerseed will combine GDM’s expertise in plant genetics, breeding, R&D, trait development and gene editing with Bunge’s global scale, processing capabilities, and broad market access. The collaboration is designed to support an integrated, end-to-end global value chain, from innovative seed development to the efficient delivery of sustainable feedstocks to biofuel customers worldwide. The first seed development projects are expected to begin in select markets and may expand globally to other relevant markets as crops and commercial opportunities mature.

Enerseed will focus on developing a portfolio of crops that offer environmental benefits such as improved soil health, reduced erosion, nitrogen fixation, and lower water requirements as well as creating additional cropping options, supporting diversification and helping growers generate revenue from fallow periods. It will be built around an open licensing model designed to expand access to advanced genetics, cultivation techniques and end-use applications.