From your perspective in MainstreamBIO, what are the biggest challenges in scaling up sustainable bio-based solutions across Europe, and how do you see certification playing a role in this transition?
The biggest challenges in scaling up is funding, logistics, availability and product applications though out the entire value chain. An idea for a product can be a relatively easy process, from an innovative perspective, as the need for solutions can be easy to spot for at least startups. However, if the demand from the end user and retail (in case of products sold in retail) is not existing (yet), it can be difficult to implement the solution and hence scaling up. Market acceptance and consumer behaviour need to be convinced of the benefits of bio-based products, which requires effective communication and branding. Another issue if the logistic, that can influence the possibility of scaling up, is not in place both in terms of biomass production, further handling and processing or finally the end buyer.
There are many funding options, however they are often not addressing all parts of the value chain and potentially don’t match the parts of the chain that is relevant for the individual innovator. Hence the funding ecosystem needs to address the entire value chain from manufacturer to consumer to follow the scaling up of sustainable bio-based solutions and meet all barriers.
Other challenges to scaling sustainable bio-based solutions across Europe include the difference of regulations and standards within countries, making it challenging to implement a uniform strategy. Certification plays a crucial role in this transition as it can ensure credibility and transparency in bio-based products. Standardisation of what is ‘sustainable bio-based solutions’ and ‘climate smart production’ will make it easier for primary producers, policy makers, companies, retail and consumers to navigate and to operate across borders. Hence certification and standardization will strengthen market acceptance by giving consumers confidence in the sustainability of products.
How can different industries work together better to support sustainable solutions, and what role does collaboration play in that?
Collaboration between different industries is essential for creating sustainable solutions because it allows for knowledge sharing, resource optimisation and innovation across sectors. At Food & Bio Cluster Denmark we aim to accelerate sustainable innovation, and this cross-sectorial collaboration is essential for strengthening and supporting sustainable solutions within food and bioresources. This Penta helix approach accommodate the necessity to connect entrepreneurs, companies, investment & capital, research & education and the public, because we thereby create the best framework for the innovation that will pave the way for future solutions within food and bioresources.
Openness and willingness to exchange best practices, but also challenges, in different industries and in every part of the value chain can support and ensure that sustainable solutions continue to be developed, which benefits the bioeconomy locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. Collaboration is not only knowledge sharing but also joining forces that can affect regulations and political influence that can lead to more effective environmental policies. Many companies are working towards similar sustainable goals but lack access to the necessary technologies or resources. By creating partnerships, which to a high degree is fostered via the Penta helix approach, industries can share knowledge on green technology, circular economy and sustainable supply chains.
What do you think is the most important factor for encouraging companies to adopt sustainable practices?
The MainstreamBIO project has focused especially on sustainable solutions for small-scale companies, such as farmers or small cooperatives. An important factor for that type of companies is obtaining more knowledge about suitable sustainable practices, and how to implement them. So, making such knowledge available in an easy-to-understand way is essential for success. For that purpose, MainstreamBIO has developed a digital Toolkit (https://mainstreambio-digital-toolkit.eu/) where information has been brought together for companies that want to apply sustainable practices. It also includes a Decision Support System(DSS) to perform a multi criteria analysis of possible solutions.
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