During an Arctic expedition, researcher Eric Herrera identified a powerful bacterium capable of producing enzymes that break down rock formations and liberate embedded metals—all without resorting to toxic chemicals traditionally used in mining operations. The discovery caught significant attention. Recognizing the massive potential for sustainable resource extraction, Herrera partnered with Evans to launch Maverick, positioning the venture at the intersection of biotechnology and responsible mining. The team just closed a $19 million seed funding round this year, underscoring investor confidence in chemical-free, environmentally conscious metal recovery methods. This development signals a shift toward greener alternatives in the mining sector, addressing long-standing environmental concerns while maintaining extraction efficiency. As the crypto and blockchain industries increasingly emphasize sustainability, innovations like Maverick's enzyme-based approach could reshape how critical minerals are sourced for hardware and industrial applications.