Protein powder from CO2

Solar Foods in Finland converts carbon dioxide and hydrogen into Solein, a protein powder with dramatically lower emissions than conventional protein.

GEA backs radical food tech

German engineering company GEA Group invested €8 million in Solar Foods this year, taking a 5.5% stake as its strategic partner.

“I strongly believe that it is necessary to do something to save this planet”

Redesigning machines to save energy

GEA is redesigning the machinery it makes for food, drinks and pharmaceuticals to be significantly less energy intensive. It's targeting net zero by 2040.

“We are in climate change, nobody, I think, can ignore this anymore. We can do better”

European firms retreat on climate

Two in five European companies are reassessing climate ambitions due to performance pressure. Over half say sustainability initiatives would be first to go if cuts are needed.

Sustainability drives GEA's growth

GEA's revenue grew 5.7% to €2.7 billion in the first half of 2026. Its EBITDA rose 10% with a 16.8% margin, proving sustainability can be profitable.

Engineers target radical cuts

GEA's CEO told engineers to stop chasing 15% more output. Instead, produce the same thing with 30% to 40% less energy, water, or other resources.

“We want to do the same thing, but with 30% to 40% less energy, less water, or any other resources”

Milk dryer cuts energy in half

GEA developed a heat pump combined with a spray dryer that let Arla produce the same milk output while cutting energy consumption by over half.

Energy crisis becomes opportunity

As European companies struggle with high energy costs this winter, GEA's focus on energy-saving technology is becoming a major competitive advantage.

“No company, I'm quite convinced, will go out of the market because of the decision to do something good for the planet”