Concept of the bioeconomy - World Bioeconomy Association

The bioeconomy is a multisectoral concept, embraced by three visions of the bioeconomy in the Association strategy and communication.

Bioresource vision

A Bioresource Vision that promotes sustainable management and use of biological resources to advance a circular, biobased economy. It underscores the role of research, technology development and upscaling to convert and valorise biomass feedstocks from agriculture, marine and forestry, as well as industrial side-streams - turning bioresources into value for climate and biodiversity, food security and health, rural livelihoods, and economic resilience.

Biotechnology vision

A Biotechnology Vision, emphasising the importance of biotechnology- and biomanufacturing research, for application and commercialisation in different sectors.

Bioecology and Social Vision

A Bioecology and Social Vision builds a bioeconomy within ecological limits, safeguarding biodiversity and natural systems while advancing circular, regionally rooted, socially inclusive development, and strengthening health and food security.

The Association promotes circularity of the bioeconomy, while recognising that all bioeconomy principles cannot be always circular. In the bioeconomy, resources are produced responsibly and sustainably, generating raw materials, intermediate and end products to replace materials exiting the cycle, thereby complementing the circular economy balance without reliance on a fossil-based economy.