The future of Bioeconomy: a discussion between tools, standards and policies to accelerate the transition

The bioeconomy is a dynamic and progressive domain that integrates scientific advancements, policy frameworks, and innovative practices with the aim of fostering a sustainable trajectory for the future. It is essential for the EU to reach its climate and energy goals by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050, while combating biodiversity loss and pollution.

In this framework, UNI, the Italian Standardization Body, has organized a session within the BIO-RADAR project, funded by the European Union and supported by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking and its members. This session aims to highlight the role of digital tools, and stakeholder collaboration in enhancing the credibility, transparency, and sustainability of the European bioeconomy. Centered around the results of BIORADAR project, and enriched by contributions from the Horizon Europe projects BioReCer, United Circles, and bi0space. The event will focus on:

• Metrics and indicators to assess bioeconomy performance.
• Tools for sustainability evaluation and stakeholder engagement.
• Policy and standardization recommendations to strengthen public trust and social acceptance of bio-based industries.

Session Chair

Viviana Buscemi, Technical Project Manager, UNI

Program

16.00 Introduction by the Chair
Institutional greetings and overview of the session's theme
Standardization underpinning innovation: the role of standardization in supporting research

16.10 Keynote: “Regenerating the Economy through Bio-Data: Vision and European Challenges”
The keynote provides an overview on the current state of bioeconomy related initiatives in the European Union, gives an overview on the supply and demand of biomass, and insights into the socioeconomic relevance of and innovation in bioeconomy sectors.

Robert M'barek, Head of Sector in the Economics of Agriculture unit, The Joint Research Centre (JRC) in Seville

16.30 Round Table – Research in action: how to support a transition towards a bioeconomy

Moderator: 
Giacomo Riccio, Technical Project Manager, UNI

BIORECER: certification and traceability of biomass resources 
Adriano Ferrara, Research Project Manager, UNI

UNITED CIRCLES: industrial symbiosis and standardization opportunities
Claudio Perissinotti Bisoni, Technical Project Manager, UNI

BIORADAR: benchmarking and sustainability criteria 
Representative of Next Technology Tecnotessile (TBD)

BI0SPACE: DPP for bio-based products and standardization needs 
Chiara Pia, Technical Officer, UNI

17.30 Live Demo – Digital Tool in Action
Unlocking Circular Solutions: BIORADAR Replication Facility Launch - Tools and Knowledge for Circularity, Innovation, and Collaboration: Interactive demo of the BIORADAR platform 
Andrea Dobri, Deputy Director of the Environmental Management & Circular Economy Division, Hamburg University of Applied Science

17.50 Q&A and Final Remarks 
Viviana Buscemi, Technical Project Manager - UNI