Event Highlights
The event kicked off with an inspiring talk from Catia Bastioli, CEO of Novamont and President of SPRING – Italian Circular Bioeconomy Cluster. She emphasized:
- The urgency of shifting from fossil-based systems to bio-based solutions.
- The importance of societal demand for bio-based products and supportive regulatory frameworks.
- The need for legislative clarity and recognition of bio-refineries to bolster the sector.
Her message underlined the pivotal role of the bioeconomy in achieving the European Green Deal and stressed the ethical imperative of transitioning to sustainable systems.
Key Highlights & Takeaways
The CBE JU Stakeholder Forum highlighted the success of the initiative in advancing the European bio-based sector by uniting diverse stakeholders and de-risking investments. It was emphasized that bio-based production must go beyond merely replacing fossil-based products, focusing on circularity, minimizing resource use, and assessing broader environmental, social, and economic impacts. The regional dimension was also key, with local biomass sourcing and regional innovation boosting local economies. A unified narrative is needed to promote bio-based solutions to both industries and consumers, while clear legislation, supportive regulations, and access to finance are essential for a successful transition. Collaboration across all stakeholders, from producers to consumers, was recognized as vital to achieving a sustainable, circular bio-based economy.
Showcasing Bio-LUSH Mission & Vision
Our project coordinator, Aji Mathew (Stockholms Universitet), alongside our partner from VTT, Alexey Khakalo, had the opportunity to present the Bio-LUSH project. They engaged in discussions and elaborated how this project contributes to the bio-based industry, particularly in terms of sustainable production and environmental protection, with a focus on the use of underutilized biomass for biofiber extraction.
The forum provided a platform for addressing key issues in the bioeconomy, including the role of flagship biorefineries and the regulatory challenges facing the industry.
Relive the Event
For those who couldn’t attend, recordings, reports, and photos are available at CBE JU Stakeholder Forum. Or enjoy our snapshot of the event below:
