The future of bioeconomy in Europe is diverse, dynamic, and increasingly interconnected. The latest BioGov.net factsheets provide a detailed look at the current state of bioeconomy strategies, sectors, and emerging trends in eight countries—each with its approach and vision for sustainable growth. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s happening across these regions:
National Bioeconomy Strategies: A Mixed Landscape
Germany, a pioneer in the field, leads with Europe’s first National Bioeconomy Strategy, focusing on biofuels, biogas, and agriculture. Italy follows with its strategy, launched in 2017, centring on textiles, pharmaceuticals, and wood-based products. Meanwhile, the Netherlands showcases an extensive strategy, supported by innovative structures like the Circular Biobased Delta and the Biobased Economy Expertise Centre.
On the other hand, countries like the Czech Republic and Greece are still without unified national strategies, while Portugal is making strides in the blue bioeconomy, particularly in coastal areas. Slovakia is also on the rise, with plans to introduce bioeconomy principles in the Žilina region.
Emerging Sectors: From Green Chemistry to Bioenergy
Across the board, countries are investing in bioeconomy sectors that vary according to local needs and opportunities. Germany continues to lead in biogas, biofuels, and agricultural innovation. Italy thrives in the bio-based textile, pharmaceutical, and wood industries. The Czech Republic is making waves in eco-construction and hemp industries, while Estonia is blending energy, agriculture, and forestry for a sustainable future.
Portugal and the Czech Republic are both eyeing green chemistry and bioplastics as emerging opportunities, with bioenergy also gaining momentum in several countries, including Portugal, Estonia, and the Czech Republic.
Education and Knowledge in Bioeconomy
Education plays a critical role in advancing bioeconomy goals. Germany integrates bioeconomy into both basic education and vocational training. Estonia has developed a comprehensive governmental strategy with actionable plans. Italy and the Netherlands boast robust educational frameworks, with significant institutional involvement. Portugal is progressively developing bioeconomy-related courses, while Slovakia’s adult learning system is evolving to meet the sector’s needs. Greece, however, lacks in having a dedicated national bioeconomy strategy, though several universities offer advanced training in circular bioeconomy and sustainability.
Social Inclusion: A Shared Challenge
All countries acknowledge the importance of involving marginalized groups in the bioeconomy, but challenges remain. Estonia prioritizes the inclusion of young adults, NEETs, rural communities, and Ukrainian refugees. Germany, Portugal, and the Netherlands, though, report no specific initiatives targeting marginalized groups at the national level. Italy’s approach varies regionally, while Greece’s national efforts lack specific programs for marginalized groups.
The Intersection of Art and Bioeconomy
What’s exciting is how art and creativity are being used to connect people to the bioeconomy. From hackathons and art exhibitions in Estonia to the BioArt Gallery in Italy, art is playing an increasingly important role in promoting sustainable practices and bio-based products. The Czech Republic and Slovakia also use art as a tool for education and inclusion in bioeconomy initiatives, with the Netherlands leading the charge with creative spaces like the MU Hybrid Art House and BlueCity.
These factsheets offer a fascinating image of Europe’s bioeconomy landscape, highlighting both the opportunities and the obstacles each country faces. From pioneering national strategies and emerging sectors to the innovative use of art and the crucial focus on education and social inclusion, the future of bioeconomy in Europe looks promising. The journey towards a more sustainable, circular economy is advancing, and each country is contributing in its own unique way.
Stay tuned as BioGov.net continues to explore these initiatives and uncover the trends shaping the bioeconomy across Europe!
Author: Ana Mendes | LOBA