The Minister for Youth and Women's Employment, Annabelle Ewing, has officially opened Scotland's first bio-refinery.

The minister formally switched on the machinery at the new CelluComp's plant.

Based in Glenrothes, CelluComp is a material science company which produces sustainable materials made from waste streams of root vegetables such as carrots and beets. Their ground-breaking new product, Curran, has a number of new properties which could be used for a variety of applications from paints and coatings, paper and packaging and personal care.

With Scotland's bio-refinery sector worth £189 million in 2013, the aim is to increase turnover to £900 million in 2025.

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Ms Ewing said: "There is huge potential in Scotland for the development and successful application of industrial biotechnology and to create future high value roles. Ambitious and innovative companies like CelluComp have already proven the important role they play in this development.

"Establishing a viable bio-refinery sector will be beneficial in a number of ways, not only in terms of creating jobs and attracting long term investment, but also expanding our expertise and knowledge in this area and environmental benefits.

"I was delighted to be the first person to power up a new plant that will not only bring additional highly skilled jobs and growth to Fife, but which will form an important milestone on Scotland’s journey to become a world class bio-refinery leader. CelluComp has developed a ground-breaking product which not only offers its own unique properties, but which also tackles some of the environmental challenges we face today - that of maximising the use of waste.

"I've met with several members of their team during my visit and it’s evident to me that investment in our young people, and continuing to invest in developing a skilled and knowledgeable workforce, can lead to sustainable economic growth and further Scotland’s global role as an innovator."

(MH/CD)