Bionema Group Ltd, a UK innovator in sustainable biological crop protection, has announced a major breakthrough in its bioherbicide pipeline, addressing one of the most pressing issues in global agriculture—herbicide-resistant weeds. Using its advanced microencapsulation platform and proprietary biosurfactant technology, the company has successfully achieved extended shelf life and consistent field performance—two key limitations that have historically hindered the effectiveness of biological weed control.
Weed resistance continues to impose heavy costs on farmers worldwide. In the UK, black-grass alone reduces wheat yields by an estimated £400 million each year, with potential national losses exceeding £1 billion if left unmanaged. Globally, the $44 billion herbicide market faces increasing challenges from weed resistance and tighter regulatory controls. Despite the growing need for alternatives, bioherbicides have captured less than 1% of the market, largely due to reliability concerns.
Bionema’s new bioherbicide aims to change that narrative. The innovation offers a shelf life exceeding 12 months under ambient conditions, improved spreading and penetration through biosurfactant-enhanced leaf deposition, and faster, more consistent suppression of resistant weeds compared to conventional spore-based products. It is also fully compatible with existing sprayer systems, ensuring ease of adoption by farmers.
“For years, bioherbicides have promised much but delivered too little,” said Dr. Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder of Bionema. “With our delivery technology, we can finally bring a solution that is stable, scalable, and field-ready. Farmers don’t have to choose between sustainability and reliability—they can have both.”
The bioherbicide is currently advancing through Bionema’s development pipeline, with multi-site trials planned and a clear roadmap toward dossier-grade registration. The company intends to out-license the technology to leading agrochemical and biocontrol partners, following its successful technology acquisition deal with Syngenta in 2021.
According to Grand View Research, the global bioherbicides market is valued at USD 3.37 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 7.87 billion by 2030, representing a CAGR of approximately 15.2%. This growth projection aligns with Bionema’s confidence that its platform is well-positioned for rapid market adoption. The company is actively seeking strategic partners and co-investors to accelerate validation, regulatory progression, and global market entry, targeting commercialisation by the end of the decade.
About Bionema Group Ltd
Bionema Group Ltd is a UK-based biotechnology company pioneering sustainable solutions in crop protection, plant health, and soil regeneration. Founded in 2012 as a spin-out from Swansea University, the company’s mission is to replace chemical pesticides and fertilisers with safer, environmentally friendly biological alternatives. Bionema’s innovation pipeline includes microbial bioinsecticides, molluscicides, biofertilisers, and next-generation bioherbicides. Its patented Incapsulex microencapsulation platform and Soil-Jet biosurfactant technology underpin its growing IP portfolio. With a strong record of successful technology transfer—including its 2021 acquisition by Syngenta—Bionema continues to forge global partnerships to deliver nature-based crop protection solutions for a sustainable agricultural future.
