The term bioeconomy refers to a well-known political-economic concept for sustainable development. Interpreted in different ways, the concept covers such diverse aspects as, e.g. the substitution of fossil resources by bio-based ones, the strengthening of bio-based sectors, and the future role of life-science innovations, even extending to a radical reorientation of economies by considering the limited availability of natural resources (see Georgescu-Roegen). The relevant causes, dynamics, and consequences of the increasing use of biomass and bio-based innovations are the focus of the research group Bioeconomy – Bio-based Economy. In particular, researchers working in this field poses questions like: What are the broader economic, environmental, or social implications of intensifying the use of bioprocessing technologies? Are biobased substitutes more sustainable (e.g. GHGs) than the status quo? Which transition pathways allow the most sustainable uses of bio-based materials? And how can the gap between technical maturity and practical implementation be overcome?
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