Phycolabs

”I saw firsthand how problematic the fashion industry is, from environmentally harmful practices to inadequate working conditions.” A solution? Phycolabs. While researching innovative materials to address these ongoing challenges, our CEO and Founder, Thamires Pontes, discovered the potention of seaweed. Learn more about how and why we aim to transform the industry through ocean-driven innovation in this piece by Daniela V. Fernandez for Planet & Purpose, a LinkedIn exclusive newsletter focused on professional insights and personal experiences from ocean and climate ecopreneurs, investors and advocates. Being part of the Sustainable Ocean Alliance Ecopreneur Network has been instrumental in our growth, providing us with the opportunity of connecting to like-minded innovators, industry leaders and impact-driven investors who share our vision for a sustaintable future, helping us drive real change at scale.

A indústria da moda está passando por uma revolução, e Thamires Pontes está na vanguarda dessa transformação. Estilista têxtil e MSc. em Têxtil e Moda, ela soma mais de dez anos de experiência no setor nacional e internacional e acredita que inovação, tecnologia e sustentabilidade podem – e devem – andar juntas. No episódio 55, Thamires compartilha sua trajetória e como sua paixão por biotecnologia e algas marinhas a levou a fundar a Phycolabs uma startup de biotech que busca na natureza soluções inovadoras para a moda do futuro. Seu trabalho com fibras têxteis à base de algas marinhas abre caminhos para uma nova era de materiais sustentáveis, unindo ciência e design para impactar positivamente o meio ambiente. Na conversa, ela também ressaltou a importância dos três pilares do embaixador da Vivo, Rafael Nadal – amigos, família e equipe – como base para sua jornada empreendedora. Este projeto B2B da Vivo (Telefônica Brasil) realizado em parceria com a Mundo TOP celebra a trajetória dos principais executivos brasileiros. #Phycolabs #ModaSustentável #Biotecnologia #Inovação #SeaweedFashionRevolution #VivoB2B #TopMagazine

It’s always an incredible experience! Each visit to a seaweed farm immerses us in the world of one of nature’s most extraordinary resources. These moments go beyond field trips; they’re a chance to connect with the essence of our mission and deepen our appreciation for the power of seaweed. Seaweed is not just a plant - it’s a symbol of possibility. It grows rapidly without the need for land, fresh water, or fertilizers, all while absorbing carbon and supporting marine biodiversity. This humble oceanic wonder holds the key to a more sustainable future for industries like fashion, where the demand for alternative, planet-friendly materials is more urgent than ever. At Phycolabs, we’re turning this vision into reality. By transforming seaweed into fibers, we’re shaping a future where you could one day wear clothing made from the ocean itself. Imagine garments that not only look good but also do good for the planet. 🌎 Our journey with seaweed is a story of connection, innovation, and purpose. We believe that by working with nature - not against it - we can reimagine entire industries. This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to bring you along as we continue to grow, explore, and create. We are immensely proud of the partnerships we’re building here in Brazil. Each visit is incredibly inspiring, deeply meaningful, and filled with valuable lessons. Together, we can go further, unlocking new possibilities for seaweed’s role in a sustainable future. 💪 #phycolabs #seaweed #environment #FromOceanToOutfit #OceanDecade

The Paris Agreement represents a turning point in the global fight against climate change, uniting nations under a shared purpose: to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming to 1.5°C. 🏭 It underscores that climate change is not just a local issue but a global challenge that demands collective action. By fostering collaboration across borders, it provides the structure we need to create a more sustainable and resilient world. This landmark agreement does more than set goals - it inspires innovation. By prioritizing the shift to clean energy and low-carbon solutions, it drives economic growth and fosters industries that are not only sustainable but also forward-thinking. At Phycolabs, we contribute to these efforts by developing cutting-edge biotech solutions designed to mitigate environmental challenges. It’s a reminder that every business, regardless of its size, has the potential to make a meaningful impact. The Paris Agreement is a call to action for everyone - governments, businesses, and individuals alike. It’s more than a framework; it’s a promise to future generations for a livable planet. By embracing this global commitment, we can collectively build a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. Let’s rise to the challenge together! 💪 #phycolabs #ParisAgreement #environment #climateaction #globalwarming

In November 2025, Brazil - our home 🇧🇷 - will host COP30 in Belém (PA), marking a historic moment as the world’s most important climate conference comes to the heart of the Amazon. This will bring the global climate conversation to a country rich in natural resources yet deeply affected by deforestation and environmental challenges. 🌍 As we mark the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, world leaders must strengthen their 2035 climate commitments and ensure that developing nations receive the promised financial support for a just transition. However, shifting political and economic pressures could test global cooperation, making COP30 a defining moment for the future of climate action. For the first time in COP history, conference facility plans have been approved ten months in advance, demonstrating Brazil’s proactive approach. Simon Stiell, UNFCCC’s executive secretary, emphasized that hosting COP is a major responsibility, bringing both economic opportunities and complex challenges to Belém and Brazil as a whole. A major priority for Phycolabs will be advancing the decarbonization of the fashion industry and accelerating the shift to more sustainable materials. We believe that innovation, investment, and accountability are essential to ensuring industries align with ambitious environmental goals. With Brazil at the center of these discussions, we hope COP30 will drive real action toward a greener future. The world will be watching - will COP30 deliver on its promises? 👀 #COP30 #SustainableFuture #ClimateAction #Brazil #FromOceanToOutfit

Let’s dive into the fascinating world of seaweed - what our Phycolabs team likes to call nature’s climate hero. Seaweed is an ocean superplant that plays a crucial role in our planet’s ecosystem. 🌏 🪸 Not only is it a versatile resource for sustainable materials, but it also acts as a powerful ally in the fight against climate change. Here’s a quick breakdown of why seaweed matters: 🔸 How seaweed captures CO₂: Seaweed absorbs CO₂ during photosynthesis, converting it into oxygen and biomass. This process makes it one of nature’s most efficient carbon capture systems. Some seaweeds grow incredibly fast, absorbing vast amounts of carbon dioxide and helping to reduce ocean acidification. When seaweed sinks to the ocean floor, it can trap carbon for centuries, further aiding in the mitigation of climate change. 🔸 Why seaweed matters: Seaweed isn’t just a carbon sink; it’s also a source of food, sustainable materials, and even biofuel. It requires no fresh water, fertilizer, or land to grow, making it an environmentally friendly resource. By understanding its potential, we can unlock innovative ways to use seaweed to support a more sustainable future. Take a moment to appreciate this ocean powerhouse the next time you see seaweed. It’s not just part of the scenery - it’s part of the solution. Ready to dive deeper and discover how you can help unleash its incredible potential? Keep following us to learn more! 😉 #phycolabs #seaweed #environment #FromOceanToOutfit #OceanDecade

Last week, the Phycolabs team proudly participated in the Community Day of the Women in Ocean Food Innovation program in Mexico, an incredible initiative led by Hatch Blue and Conservation International Ventures LLC. 🌍 🪸 Our CEO, Thamires Pontes, returned this year not only as an alumna of the 2023 cohort but also to support, celebrate, and strengthen the sense of community among women leading the way in sustainable aquaculture. This equity-free program empowers women-led businesses to scale, refine their technology, and align with industry needs. Thamires was the first Brazilian to participate in the program, and this year, Brazil was proudly represented by two more inspiring companies: Aqua Viridi from Manaus, led by Fabiane Almeida and Raize Castro Mendes and Marulho - Negócio de Impacto Socioambiental from Ilha Grande, led by Beatriz Mattiuzzo. Joining them were other incredible women-led ventures: Albacora Pesca Artesanal | Asociación Afro Agropecuaria y Turística El Pasito | Jóvenes en el Rescate Pesquero de las Costas | Kosten Bio | Laks Food | Marea Rosa | Oyster Mex Granja Marina | PACIFIC BIOCULTURE | SOS Biotech. We are living proof of what’s possible with a strong community and support network. Thamires was there to inspire and champion the next wave of innovative leaders in ocean foods. We didn’t want this trip to end - thank you for having us and for continuing to build this incredible community; let’s keep fostering a sustainable ocean economy led by women. Swipe left to see the photos! 📸 #WomenInOceanFood #InnovationStudios #Sustainability #BlueEconomy

2024 has been recorded as the hottest on record - a stark reminder of the urgent challenges we face. Global temperatures have now exceeded the critical 1.5°C threshold outlined in the 2015 Paris Agreement, and ocean temperatures have soared to unprecedented levels. 🔥 These alarming milestones signal profound consequences for our planet, with ecosystems, marine life, and coral reefs experiencing devastating impacts such as heatwaves and widespread bleaching. The world’s oceans, which typically act as a buffer against global warming by absorbing approximately 91% of excess atmospheric heat, are under immense strain. With sustained high ocean temperatures, scientists warn of a potentially diminished “heat reservoir” effect, which could trigger a dangerous feedback loop of escalating global temperatures. At Phycolabs, we firmly believe that innovation and sustainability are the keys to reversing these alarming trends. Our mission is to harness the power of science and creativity to develop impactful solutions that not only combat climate change but also inspire a more sustainable and resilient future. Join us in making a difference. Together, we can turn the tide. 💪 #phycolabs #seaweed #environment #climateaction #globalwarming

Let’s talk about our purpose. Imagine a time when everything humans crafted came from the earth around them. People didn’t have the technology we rely on today, but they created with intention, using the natural world as their guide. 🌍 They saw beauty and function in the simplest materials, working with what they had and respecting the resources they relied on. Every design, every tool, reflected this deep connection to nature. Fast forward to today, and the world has evolved in ways our ancestors could never have imagined. We’ve built massive cities, developed technologies that connect us across vast distances, and unlocked countless innovations. But in our rush forward, something crucial was left behind: a true connection with the materials we use, the processes we follow, and the impact we leave on the world. This is where the future begins. At Phycolabs, we bridge the wisdom of the past with the possibilities of today. With the knowledge and technology we have now, we can create with greater care, purpose, and sustainability - valuing resources that are kind to the planet, ensuring transparent processes, and delivering results that make a meaningful impact. By combining the best of both worlds, we can design a better future - one that honors the world we live in and the one we hope to leave behind. ✨ #phycolabs #seaweed #environment #FromOceanToOutfit #OceanDecade

The #UnlockHerFuture is a remarkable initiative by DO GOOD, in partnership with The Bicester Collection, that recognizes and empowers women social entrepreneurs. Do you remember when we were honored to win the LATAM edition in 2024? This prize celebrates women who are pioneering startups that drive positive change, working toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and creating lasting social, environmental, and economic impact within their communities and beyond. Presented in partnership with Ashoka South Asia and University of Oxford Saïd Business School, the Unlock Her Future Prize offers winners incredible opportunities: 🔶 A grant of up to US$100,000 🔶 Access to world-renowned universities 🔶 Mentorship from exceptional global experts 🔶 Global exposure to elevate their impact Phycolabs had the privilege of opening the ceremony for the South Asia Edition, which will take place in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka in 2025. We are excited to see the immense potential this initiative holds in driving change and uplifting women innovators across the region. If you are a female innovator and a citizen and resident of South Asia, or know someone who fits this description, we’re thrilled to share that applications are officially open! This is an incredible opportunity to take your startup to the next level. 🚀 Learn more and apply here 👉 https://lnkd.in/dqVFfRVp #UnlockHerFuture #WomenEntrepreneurs #SocialImpact #DoGood #Asia