On October 11, 2018, the European Commission (EC) published an update to the EU’s bioeconomy strategy, initially released in 2012. The updated 2018 document puts forward the needs “to improve and scale up the sustainable use of renewable resources to address global and local challenges such as climate change and sustainable development.”
According to the press release, the bioeconomy “can turn algae into fuel, recycle plastic, convert waste into new furniture or clothing or transform industrial by-products into bio-based fertilizers.” However, realizing this vision would require “a concerted effort by public authorities and industry.”
To support this, the EC will launch “14 concrete measures” in 2019, including measures aimed at supporting bio-based innovations and realizing the “underused biomass and waste potential” across Europe, as well as projects aimed at “protecting the ecosystem and understanding the ecological limitations of the bioeconomy.” With regard to the latter, the EC plans to “provide guidance and promote good practices on how to operate in the bioeconomy within safe ecological limits.”
Read more
EC (October 11, 2018). “A new bioeconomy strategy for a sustainable Europe.”
EC (2018). “The bioeconomy strategy.”
Cefic (October 12, 2018). “Cefic welcomes the Commission’s adoption of the new bioeconomy strategy.”
Plastics News Europe (October 12, 2018). “Europe to launch bioeconomy strategy for sustainability.”
European Bioplastics (October 17, 2018). “Reviewed European bioeconomy strategy strengthens defossilisation of plastics sector.”
JRC (October 22, 2018). “Interview with JRC bioeconomy experts.”
Philippe Mengal (October 23, 2018). “Europe must continue to invest in the bioplastic revolution.” The Parliament Magazine
Gerardo Fortuna (October 23, 2018). “New EU bioeconomy strategy widens scope to solve more cycle problems.” Euractiv
References
EC (October 2018). “A sustainable bioeconomy for Europe: strengthening the connection between economy, society and the environment. Updated bioeconomy strategy.” Doi: 10.2777/792130 (pdf)
EC (February 13, 2012). “Innovating for sustainable growth. A bioeconomy for Europe.” Doi: 10.2777/6462
