EU Bioeconomy strategy - Towards a circular, regenerative and competitive bioeconomy

Practical information

1. Composition of the study group

2. Administrators / Assistant in charge: Anna CAMERON, Caroline VERHELST / Lukáš ĎURECH

3. Contact

Background

The bioeconomy includes biomass production, biomass conversion into food, materials and products, and bioenergy. It is recognised as a key solution for achieving sustainable development. The bioeconomy is essential for the EU to reach its climate and energy goals by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050, while combating biodiversity loss and pollution. A systems thinking approach is needed to optimise the sustainable use of bioresources across sectors.

The implementation of the 2012 bioeconomy strategy and its update in 2018 has driven significant progress in research and innovation. The new strategy builds on this foundation and seeks to leverage advances in biotechnology to further strengthen the EU bioeconomy. The bioeconomy has the potential to advance the EU’s environmental goals, developing a circular economy while preserving ecosystems and biodiversity. This strategy for economic growth will be aligned with the Competitiveness Compass, the Clean Industrial Deal, and the Vision for Agriculture and Food.

This opinion explores the potential of the bioeconomy and how policies can ensure its long-term competitiveness and investment security, while safeguarding nature. It will present civil society´s views on further goals which include increasing resource-efficient and circular use of biological resources, securing a sustainable supply of biomass, both within the EU and from international sources, and strengthening the EU’s position in the rapidly expanding global bioeconomy.

This opinion will be elaborated with the participation of the Enlargement Candidate Members.