Policy paper on Bio-based Economy in the EU: Level Playing Field for Bio-based Chemistry and Materials

Michael Carus (nova-Institute), Dirk Carrez (Clever Consult), Harald Kaeb (narocon), Jan Ravenstijn (biopolymer consultant) and Joachim Venus (ATB) - (July 2011)

Over the last ten years numerous studies have demonstrated the impressive potential of bio-based products: The production of bio-based chemicals and materials can create ten thousands of new green jobs, increase resource efficiency and make a considerable contribution to climate protection and innovation. Despite these benefits the investment in industrial biotechnology and biorefineries in Europe remains low. The political and economic framework in the EU does not support the industrial material use of biomass – this is in contrast to bioenergy and especially biofuels, which has expanded rapidly in the EU over the last ten years. The European “Innovation Union” needs to establish a level playing field for bio-based chemistry and materials in order for the EU to realize the potential of greening its process industries.

2011-04-29: The final version of the policy paper was submitted to the EU Commission and to the public consultation on the "bio-based economy for Europe: state of play and future potential". The policy paper is supported by 90 stakeholders from different associations, agencies, public authorities, foundations, companies, universities, institutes and research centers from all over Europe.

Download Policy Paper (3271 Downloads) (2011-07-01)

Download Publication CHEManager Europe (external Link) (2011-09-07)