The CO₂ Fixation and Bioconversion International Symposium 2025 (CO₂FIX 2025), hosted by Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology (TIB), Chinese Academy of Sciences, was successfully held in Tianjin on October 13–14.

During the opening ceremony of the symposium, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) launches an International Science Program on the CO₂ Fixation and Bioconversion (CO₂FIX), which is led by TIB, based on its pioneering breakthroughs—such as artificial starch synthesis from CO₂—as well as its advanced automated and intelligent biofoundry infrastructure. By uniting leading global research strengths through interdisciplinary collaboration, the CO₂FIX program will work to elucidate the mechanisms of CO₂ fixation and bioconversion, design more efficient artificial biological systems, and achieve breakthroughs in the theory and technology of CO₂ bioconversion. These advances are expected to open new pathways for addressing global challenges such as climate change and food security. 

The event also featured the appointment of Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) members to the CO₂FIX. The first meeting of SAB was held during the symposium.

More than 150 experts and scholars from over 50 universities and research institutions across 23 countries from six continents took part in the event. They engaged in fruitful academic exchange and discussions on the key scientific topics in CO₂ fixation, and low-carbon feedstock bioconversion. Among of them, 24 leading experts and young researchers from countries including Australia, China, Denmark, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the Netherlands and the United States were invited to present their latest findings. The presentations centered on core topics such as CO₂ fixation, bioconversion of low-carbon feedstocks, mechanisms of CO₂ fixation and energy coupling, and design of artificial systems for CO₂ fixation and bioconversion.

During the symposium, the Tianjin Initiative on CO₂ Fixation and Bioconversion for Global Sustainable Development was released. It calls upon research institutions and all sectors of society worldwide to actively participate in the CO₂FIX International Science Program and jointly advance cutting-edge research in CO₂ bioconversion. It further advocates for the establishment of an International Alliance for CO₂ Fixation and Bioconversion to promote cross-disciplinary knowledge sharing and collaboration, the formulation of international standards to accelerate global adoption of relevant technologies and expanded public outreach and education to raise awareness and broaden societal participation.

Next, the CO₂FIX International Science Program will prioritize creating a branded international conference series, facilitating high-level global talent exchanges, and setting up a global open research fund. These efforts will deepen international scientific collaboration, foster new models of synergistic research, and accelerate breakthroughs in fundamental science and technological bottlenecks in CO₂ fixation and bioconversion. By harnessing global wisdom and momentum, the CO₂FIX program aims to contribute to a green, low-carbon, and sustainable future for all.

The scene of the symposium

Launching Ceremony for the CAS International Science Program on  CO₂ Fixation and Bioconversion

Appointment Ceremony for CO₂FIX SAB Members

Release the Tianjin Initiative on CO₂ Fixation and Bioconversion for Global Sustainable Development

Group photo