Tidal Vision: Revolutionizing Green Chemistry with Crab Shells

Unlocking the Potential of Dungeness Crab Shells

Dungeness crab shells, once considered waste in the fishing and seafood industries, have become a goldmine for innovation in green chemistry, thanks to Tidal Vision, a forward-thinking company based in Bellingham, Washington. Founded by a former Alaska fishing boat captain, Craig Kasberg, Tidal Vision has developed an environmentally friendly, zero-waste process to transform discarded crab shells into chitosan, a versatile and valuable industrial chemical. This breakthrough innovation not only tackles the issue of waste but also offers a sustainable alternative to harmful chemicals commonly used in various industries.

Chitosan, a biodegradable polymer extracted from crustacean shells, is a wonder chemical with applications in water purification, food preservation, agriculture, textiles, and even pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. It serves as a safer and more eco-friendly substitute for toxic chemicals, metals, and petroleum-based products. By harnessing the power of chitosan, Tidal Vision is paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future.

The Journey from the Sea to Science

Craig Kasberg’s journey to becoming the CEO of Tidal Vision began as a teenager working in commercial fishing. Over the years, he captained his own fishing boat and witnessed firsthand the massive amounts of byproducts wasted in the seafood industry. This concern for waste inspired him to co-found Tidal Vision in 2015 with Zach Wilkinson, now the company’s Chief Strategy Officer. Together, they set out to create a business that would not only reduce waste but also produce high-value materials that could benefit multiple industries.

Since its inception, Tidal Vision has grown significantly, expanding its workforce to 287 employees and broadening its product offerings. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has earned it recognition as a finalist for the Sustainable Innovation of the Year award at the GeekWire Awards in 2023. This accolade underscores Tidal Vision’s role as a leader in the green chemistry sector.

A Company on the Move: Expansion and Acquisitions

Tidal Vision’s success is evident in its rapid expansion and strategic moves. In addition to its headquarters in Bellingham, the company operates production facilities in South Carolina and is constructing new plants in Texas, Ohio, and Europe. The Texas facility, for instance, will focus on producing liquid fertilizers through its Tidal Grow Agriscience division, further diversifying the company’s product portfolio.

In 2023, Tidal Vision acquired Clear Water Services, a company based in Everett, Washington, that specializes in water cleaning devices and services. This acquisition was a strategic move, as Clear Water Services had already been using Tidal Vision’s cleaning chemicals. The deal not only strengthened Tidal Vision’s presence in the water treatment sector but also demonstrated the growing demand for its eco-friendly products.

Securing the Future with $140 Million in Funding

To further accelerate its growth and innovation, Tidal Vision raised $140 million in a Series B funding round in 2024. This significant investment was led by Cambridge Companies SPG, with contributions from other prominent investors, including Eni Next, Milliken & Company, KIRKBI Climate, and SWEN Capital Partners’ Blue Ocean Fund, among others.

The funding will enable Tidal Vision to scale its operations, expand its global footprint, and continue developing cutting-edge applications for chitosan. Filipp Chebotarev, Chief Operating Officer and Managing Partner at Cambridge Companies SPG, praised Tidal Vision as the “global leader in chitosan extraction, modification, characterization, and commercial applications.” This recognition highlights the company’s groundbreaking work and its potential to transform industries worldwide.

Conclusion: A Vision for a Sustainable Future

Tidal Vision’s story is one of innovation, sustainability, and societal impact. From its humble beginnings as a startup founded by a former fishing boat captain to its current status as a global leader in green chemistry, the company has proven that even the most unlikely resources, like crab shells, can hold immense value. By turning waste into a wonder chemical, Tidal Vision is not only reducing environmental impact but also offering safer, more sustainable alternatives to harmful substances used in various industries.

With its recent funding, expansions, and strategic acquisitions, Tidal Vision is poised to continue its mission of driving positive change on a global scale. As industries increasingly seek eco-friendly solutions, Tidal Vision’s breakthrough technologies and commitment to sustainability make it a pivotal player in the transition to a greener future.