Monsanto Company (NYSE: MON) and Mendel Biotechnology, Inc. announced a collaborative agreement to enhance the development of Mendel’s BioEnergy Seeds & Feedstocks business. Under the terms of the agreement, Mendel will benefit from Monsanto’s experience in the testing, breeding and development of crops.
Mendel and Monsanto have worked together on the development of biotechnology traits for more than a decade in many crops, including corn, soy, cotton and canola. In this new collaboration, the two companies will apply Monsanto’s expertise in crop testing, breeding and seed production to perennial grass seed varieties Mendel is developing for use in biofuels and other commercial applications.
"Mendel sees a bright future for second generation biofuels. We recognize the need to continue growing our capabilities and expertise to enable us to best serve farmers and refiners with proprietary seed products," said Neal Gutterson, president and CEO of Mendel.
Cellulosic biofuels are made from leaves, stems, stalks or other typically non-edible parts of plants. Use of these renewable energy sources has the potential to greatly expand biofuel supply and also deliver environmental benefits such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
About Mendel Biotechnology
Mendel Biotechnology, Inc., has been a pioneer in the application of functional genomics to the study of plant genes. Mendel is also a pioneer for the production of dedicated energy crops critical for second generation biofuels. Mendel has identified and patented the use of genes that control many aspects of plant growth and development, and is using such inventions to develop or co-develop new plant varieties with improved productivity and quality. Mendel has relationships with leading agricultural, energy, forestry and horticulture companies for the commercialization of improved seed and plant products, and is developing new seed and feedstock products for the emerging bioenergy market.
About Monsanto
Monsanto Company is a leading provider of technology-based solutions and agricultural products. For more information on Monsanto, see http://www.monsanto.com/.
Loading...