Platypus

Platypus aims to accelerate and promote the pest management market to shift into more sustainable and effective solutions

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About Us

Platypus is an early-stage B2B startup revolutionizing pest control practices with a breakthrough biodegradable delivery platform. We have developed a first-of-its-kind raw material that enables the controlled, slow release of natural bioactive ingredients—such as essential oils and pheromones—in a way that doesn’t exist in today’s market. This innovation allows manufacturers to create eco-friendly pest management solutions that are not only safer for the environment but also up to ten times more effective than existing alternatives.
Our technology significantly reduces costs, accelerates time-to-market, and enhances the value of end products across the agriculture, food supply chain, and home & garden sectors.
Currently at TRL6, Platypus has completed pilots under real environmental conditions, with field trials ongoing across Europe and Israel. Supported by the Israel Innovation Authority and protected by a patent-pending formulation, our technology is on track for commercial availability in 2026.
Winner of the 2025 Bernard Blum Award for Innovation in Biocontrol, Platypus is now seeking partners to join its journey toward redefining pest management for a sustainable future.

Relevant Challenges

Reduce Inputs

Platypus addresses the challenge of reducing inputs by optimizing the delivery and effectiveness of bioactive compounds. Our controlled release system ensures that smaller quantities of these compounds are needed over time, reducing the overall input required for effective pest management. This approach not only lowers costs but also minimizes the environmental impact associated with excessive use of traditional pesticides.

Reduce Emissions

Platypus tackles the challenge of reducing emissions by utilizing fully biodegradable materials and optimizing the use of bioactive compounds. Our controlled release system lessens the need for frequent applications, which in turn reduces the emissions associated with production, transportation, and application of traditional pest control products. This approach supports a more sustainable and low-emission solution for pest management.

Crop Resilience

Platypus enhances crop resilience by using a precise delivery system for bioactive compounds, such as pheromones and essential oils. This system supports healthier crops by providing consistent protection against pests over an extended period, reducing stress on plants and helping them better withstand environmental challenges. The targeted approach minimizes damage and promotes stronger, more resilient crops.

Food Spoilage

Platypus technology not only targets insects but also helps combat bacteria and fungi in the supply chain. By delivering bioactive compounds such as essential oils and other agents in a controlled manner, Platyform provides protection against a wide range of biological threats, enhancing food safety and reducing spoilage. This broad-spectrum approach supports a more resilient and sustainable supply chain.

Regenerative Practices

Platypus contributes to the regenerative practices challenge by reducing the need for synthetic pesticides, which in turn promotes healthier soils. Our PlatyForm system, made from biobased and biodegradable materials, supports the use of natural pest control methods, minimizing chemical inputs that can degrade soil health. This aligns with regenerative practices such as crop cover, agroforestry, and reduced tillage, all of which enhance soil carbon sequestration and overall soil vitality.

Product Design

Platypus addresses product design challenge by simplifying the development of new solutions. Its unique delivery system can be combined with a wide range of bio-based volatile compounds, allowing for quick and flexible creation of new products. This adaptability makes it easier to innovate and tailor pest control solutions to specific needs, enhancing the effectiveness and versatility of sustainable agricultural practices.

Biodegradable Materials

Platypus tackles the biodegradable materials challenge by ensuring that all ingredients in our formulation are biobased and fully biodegradable. These materials are so safe that they could even be edible if needed. This commitment to using eco-friendly, natural components not only reduces environmental impact but also ensures that our products are safe for humans, animals, and the ecosystem, while maintaining effectiveness in pest control.

Technology Enablers

Platypus addresses the Technology Enablers challenge by leveraging our PlatyForm delivery system, which integrates advanced materials science and biotechnology. This system can be easily adapted to deliver a wide range of bioactive compounds, enhancing its flexibility and effectiveness. By focusing on biobased, biodegradable materials and precise release mechanisms, Platypus enables the creation of innovative, sustainable pest control solutions that are both environmentally friendly and technologically advanced.

Biomaterials

Platypus meets the biomaterials challenge by using materials that are entirely biobased and biodegradable, derived from renewable and sustainable sources such as plants. Not only is our PlatyForm formulation eco-friendly, but all the active ingredients added to it are also plant-based or derived from other biological sources. This approach aligns with the principles of using low-carbon, renewable resources, ensuring that Platypus pest control solutions are both effective and environmentally responsible.

Habitat and Species Conservation

At Platypus, we champion Habitat and Species Conservation by leveraging technology that minimizes the use of chemical pesticides. By reducing chemical reliance, our solutions help preserve and manage protected areas and wildlife habitats, fostering healthier ecosystems. This approach supports pollination, controls biological invasions, and aligns with conservation efforts to maintain genetic diversity and ensure the sustainability of both terrestrial and marine ecosystems.

Year Founded:
2021
Country:
Israel
Funding Stage:
Seed
Product Stage:
First Paying Customer to Multiple Customers
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