Read the news piece on our efforts to sustainably source agarwood fragrances using algae and membrane technology. The Arab world’s history and significance of fragrances, particularly oud and perfumes, are deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the region. Rooted in ancient traditions, the use of perfumes in the Arab world can be traced back to the influence of early civilizations like the Egyptians. Oud, a prized component derived from the agarwood tree, stands out for its rich and complex scent, becoming a symbol of luxury and tradition in Arab perfumery. Perfumes in the Arab world extend beyond personal adornment, embodying hospitality, and a commitment to artisanal craftsmanship.
The sustainability of fragrances, including those rooted in Arab perfumery, is gaining prominence amid growing environmental concerns. Traditional perfumery, often reliant on natural plant-based ingredients, is transitioning towards sustainable practices. This shift involves ethical sourcing and biodiversity conservation. We have discovered chemically produced alternatives for ingredients normally sourced from agarwood trees for the production of perfumes in this $44 billion market. Read our article in Green Chemistry, in collaboration with Prof Kyle Lauersen’s team.
Image credit: Hassan A. Tahini @KAUST
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