The European Commission is preparing to usher in a new phase for the bioeconomy with a strategy that aims to generate new sources of income for farmers and foresters, foster the growth of bioproducts, and reduce regulatory constraints.

The document – will be officially presented on November 12 via a press conference in Brussels and then with a public event “Boosting and mainstreaming the bioeconomy” on December 2 at the University of Copenhagen.

The paper defines the bioeconomy as “a strategic opportunity of the 21st century,” an engine of green growth, competitiveness and resilience.

It identifies as lead markets the sectors with the greatest potential for decarbonization: bioplastics, biopolymers, natural fibers, biofertilizers, bioconstruction, and biotextiles. Key technologies include integrated biorefineries and advanced fermentation.

The strategy also aims to simplify the approval of new biobased products and create a common definition of “biobased” by 2026 to ensure regulatory clarity among member states.