A comprehensive strategy for nature-based biodegradable materials

Scope and objectives

On 26 January 2026, the EESC will hold a public hearing in the context of its own-initiative opinion on A comprehensive strategy for nature-based biodegradable materials to foster circularity and resource efficiency, strengthen the agri-food sector and scale-up the EU bioeconomy.

The hearing will invite different DGs from the European Commission and civil society organisations to gather input to contribute to a comprehensive strategy for nature-based biodegradable materials. 

In particular, the hearing aims to

• Discuss nature-based biodegradable materials as a strategic opportunity for EU industrial competitiveness and circular bioeconomy performance, within planetary boundaries;
• Identify gaps in policy frameworks that prevent the development and implementation of nature-based biodegradable materials;
• Address market challenges and opportunities in the agri-food, forestry, and fishery/aquaculture sector.

This event will be webstreamed freely. Interpretation will be provided in English, Spanish and German. Don’t miss it!

Context

Nature-based biodegradable materials offer a promising solution to help address Europe’s resource crisis. As such, they can replace fossil-based materials, reduce carbon footprint, mitigate microplastic pollution, valorise agri-food waste streams, and improve environmental performance across value chains. By supporting a regenerative and circular bioeconomy, bio-based regenerative materials contribute to the EU climate and biodiversity objectives, while strengthening EU strategic autonomy and industrial competitiveness through the creation of new, sustainable market opportunities in the agri-food, forestry, and fishery/aquaculture sectors.

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