Harnessing the bioeconomy

Draghi’s 2024 report frames the bioeconomy as a strategic industrial necessity, warning that Europe must bridge the "innovation gap" in order to prevent economic decline and foreign dependency. Announced at the end of 2025, the Strategy for a Competitive and Sustainable EU Bioeconomy aims to boost innovation and support European companies in making a success of the green transition.  

The bioeconomy and biotechnology are an untapped driver for Europe's clean industrial transition and decarbonisation by sustainably substituting fossil-based materials with circular, biological resources that foster a cleaner environment. By accelerating the scale-up of these technologies, the EU can effectively bridge the gap between environmental ambition and industrial reality. Ultimately, through innovation Europe can reduce critical dependencies on imported inputs, supports our security in the long term, and build EU strategic autonomy and leadership in the global green tech race.

A Renew Europe seminar, drawing together the expertise and experience of diverse but innovative sectors, exploring the barriers and best practice, will facilitate charting the policy path forward in order to sustainably harness the potential of the bioeconomy.

Programme:

European Parliament, ASP 5G1

08.00 - 08.05    Welcome & Introductory Remarks

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08.05 - 08.15     European Environmental Bureau – Eva Bille, Head of Circular Economy

08.15 - 08.25    Metsä Group, Julia Jouvençon, Manager, Corporate Affairs

08.25 - 08.35    Novonesis – Jens Kolind, Senior Vice President

08.35 - 08.45    Irish Co-operative Organisation Society – John Brosnan, Bioeconomy Executive (Online)

08.45 - 08.55    European Algae Biomass Association (Online)

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08.55 - 09.25    Q&A

09.25 - 09.30    Closing remarks