In Belgium, The European Chemical Industry Council (Cefic) is calling on the European Union to transform its upcoming Bioeconomy Strategy into a comprehensive industrial strategy. Cefic argues that the bioeconomy holds untapped potential to boost Europe’s industrial competitiveness, enhance circularity, and secure access to sustainable resources.
In a newly released position paper, Cefic outlines a Five-Point Action Plan aimed at scaling up bio-based chemistry and biomanufacturing across the continent. The plan emphasizes the need for strong policy support, market incentives, and innovation funding to ensure Europe remains a global leader in biobased solutions.
Key recommendations include support for biomass-derived products in legislation and the creation of high-performing bioeconomy clusters; a unified EU regulatory framework to accelerate innovation and cross-border collaboration; clear sustainability criteria and improved access to diverse bio-based feedstocks, including through Free Trade Agreements; increased funding for initiatives like the Circular Bio-Based Europe Joint Undertaking and support for technologies such as New Genomic Techniques; and creation of favorable conditions for European chemical companies to compete globally.
Without decisive action, Europe risks falling behind international competitors and becoming dependent on imported biobased materials and technologies, Cefic warned.