Our research topics

Background

In a rapidly changing world, the search for ecological solutions to environmental change is essential. In light of the conclusions of COP 15 Biodiversity, the unit chose to show that researchers are capable of not only reflecting on, but also taking action against, the erosion of biodiversity. ChimEco's research activities are based on the recent IPBES report, in particular the key factors responsible for the collapse of biodiversity:

  1. Land use change

  2. Climate change

  3. Overexploitation of natural resources

  4. Pollution

  5. Invasive alien species

Thus, the main themes concern soil and aquatic pollution, and the development of exotic plant and animal species.

Strategies

The solutions studied are inspired by "nature-based solutions." They therefore fall within the scope of global ecology and are based on research into phytotechnologies that can protect/conserve, or even restore, degraded ecosystems, with operational objectives that are implemented in the field and on a large scale. These phytotechnologies include phytoremediation (phytoextraction, rhizofiltration), plant physicochemistry (biosorption), and eco-responsible management of invasive alien species.

A better understanding of the plant species studied revealed a common feature: they all have an unusual mineral composition, which was the starting point for a new concept created by ChimEco:ecocatalysis. This first entirely bio-based mineral catalysis has added an economic dimension to ecological solutions. Interdisciplinarity, as we see it, thus leads to scientific innovations, which are accompanied, by the unit, into the socio-economic sphere.

Pollution of terrestrial ecosystems

An ecological restoration program proven on a large scale and internationally. New Caledonia is a prime example. Six hectares of restoration based on the use of endemic species:

• Development of pioneer species
• Planting suitable legumes
• Increase in local biodiversity

Pollution of aquatic ecosystems

The environmentally friendly treatment of industrial effluents is carried out using plant filters through rhizofiltration or biosorption processes. These two phytotechnologies are based on an understanding of the molecular structure of selected plant species. These methodologies have been validated in nature and under real conditions, in batch or continuous mode. In addition, they provide a means of recycling strategic metals such as palladium, platinum, rhodium, and rare earths.

Invasive alien plant species

The demonstrative example of Fallopia japonica, one of the 100 most harmful invasive species in the world according tothe IUCN. ChimEco offers an eco-responsible management method based on:

• Regulation of the field
• A life cycle analysis that takes into account the state of health of the ecosystem after intervention
• An unprecedented way of recovering value from waste that can support long-term management efforts

Invasive alien animal species

Aedes albopictus, or the tiger mosquito, is an invasive alien species native to Southeast Asia and sometimes a vector for viruses such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika. Several mosquito repellents are already available on the market, but they are only moderately effective against Aedes albopictus. ChimEco's research has led to the commercialization of ECO-certified repellents, designed to take into account the complexity of mosquito receptors. Its production is 100% natural and bio-inspired, and its effectiveness has been scientifically proven and patented.

Ecocatalysis

ChimEco is convinced that nature-based solutions represent an economically viable and sustainable alternative thanks to innovative chemistry.Ecocatalysis represents a scientific breakthrough, a new field of research offering a completely revamped synthetic chemistry:

• Suitable for all major chemical mechanisms (acid, base, oxidative, reductive catalysis, cross-coupling)
• Environmental indicators calculated and optimized across the entire value chain
• Bio-inspired and bio-based
• Designed for the long term and based on a symbiotic and/or regenerative economy