Driving Sustainable Growth: The Role of Bioeconomy in Europe’s Future
The bioeconomy is more than just a concept — it is a powerful engine for sustainable growth, innovation and competitiveness. By leveraging renewable natural resources, it reduces dependence on fossil fuels, creates new business opportunities and accelerates technological advancements while supporting climate goals. On 26 March 2025, key policymakers, industry leaders and researchers gathered at the Permanent Representation of Finland to the EU in Brussels to explore how the EU’s bioeconomy strategy can shape a more sustainable and competitive future. The event featured high-level discussions, expert panels and insights into how bio-based industries can lead Europe’s green transition.
The event commenced with opening remarks by Finland’s Permanent Representative to the EU Jori Arvonen, who set the stage for discussions on the bioeconomy’s transformative potential. “We see that bioeconomy has many advantages. It offers a comprehensive strategy to combat climate change, reduce the EU's dependence on fossil-based raw materials and energy, and improve resource efficiency by using primary and secondary renewable resources to prepare bio-based solutions.” said Arvonen.
Following this, keynote speeches were delivered by Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy and Sari Multala, Minister for Climate and the Environment.
“We want to boost the bioeconomy as part of the competitiveness and resilience agenda. It is about creating jobs and using the bioeconomy for new and innovative applications. It is about developing a strong industrial base in Europe, rooted in responsibility and sustainability. We have the resources and the skills to do this, and the demand is also there,” Commissioner Roswall highlighted.
"Bioeconomy is a vital sector for Finland, and its potential for sustainable growth and innovation is immense. As we strive towards a climate-neutral future, we must strengthen the EU's bioeconomy to ensure competitiveness, resilience, and economic security. By investing in sustainable bioproduction, embracing new technologies, and ensuring coherent policies, we can create a circular, carbon-neutral economy that benefits both people and the planet. Finland is committed to this transition, and we will continue to be a driving force in the bioeconomy revolution.” stated Minister for Climate and the Environment Multala.
A dynamic panel discussion on the future of the EU Bioeconomy Strategy featured experts from various sectors, including Stefan Köhler, MEP; Henrietta Moon, CEO of Carbo Culture; Marco Rupp from the Biobased Industries Consortium; Kristin Schreiber from DG GROW and Hans Sohlström, CEO of Stora Enso. The panel addressed how bio-based industries can drive economic growth and environmental sustainability. They discussed the positive shift in the European Parliament’s stance on bioeconomy, the importance of innovation and industry involvement, and the role of EU policies like the Biotech Act and the Circular Economy Act in promoting a sustainable bioeconomy.
Panelists also explored the vital role of research and innovation in advancing bioeconomy, with a particular focus on carbon removal technologies. Henrietta Moon emphasised the potential of removing carbon from biowaste, while Marco Rupp highlighted how EU research funding could support bio-based industries. Hans Sohlström shared insights on scaling renewable products, and Kristin Schreiber discussed how the EU could foster industrial aspects of bioeconomy. The discussion concluded with a call for greater cross-sector collaboration, policy alignment, and investment in research-driven innovation to drive a competitive, sustainable bioeconomy.
The event concluded with remarks from Deputy Permanent Representative Lauri Hirvonen, who summarised the key takeaways and stressed the ongoing need for dialogue and action to support bioeconomy initiatives across Europe. “The bioeconomy remains a top priority for Finland, and we hope that the strategic direction outlined in the Competitiveness Compass and the Clean Industrial Deal will continue to shape future EU initiatives,” Hirvonen stated.