• With the world population moving towards 9 billion by 2050 and fossil resources dwindling, Europe needs to review its management and use of renewable biological resources.

• The depletion of fossil resources, on which the European economy heavily depends, calls for a shift towards a new, post-petroleum society.

• With its cross-cutting nature, the bioeconomy offers a unique opportunity to address complex and inter-connected challenges, while achieving economic growth.

• It can assist Europe in making the transition to a more resource efficient society that relies more strongly on renewable biological resources to satisfy consumers' needs, industry demand and tackle climate change.

• The EU bioeconomy already has a turnover of nearly €2 trillion and employs more than 22 million people, accounting for 9% of total employment in the EU.

Bioeconomy​