Biogospodarka

Biogospodarka, or bioeconomy, is an economic model focused on the sustainable production and use of biological resources to create food, energy, chemicals, and materials, while reducing environmental pressures and preserving biodiversity. It brings together life sciences, biotechnology, agriculture, forestry, and the circular economy to develop biomass-based value chains.

The scope of biogospodarka includes agriculture, forestry, fisheries and aquaculture, the food industry, bioenergy, and bio-based industries such as chemicals, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. It relies on sustainable biomass supply chains, innovations in processing and conversion, and digital tools to optimize production, logistics, and market integration.

Policy context varies by country but shares common goals. In Poland, the term biogospodarka is used to describe national efforts to transform the economy through bioresources. At the European level, the bioeconomy is guided by the EU Bioeconomy Strategy, Horizon Europe programs, and the Circular Economy Action Plan, with aims to boost competitiveness, rural development, and climate neutrality while safeguarding ecosystems.

Benefits and challenges accompany the transition. Potential benefits include job creation, regional development, enhanced energy security, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Challenges involve ensuring sustainable feedstock supply without competing with food production, managing land and water use, establishing robust sustainability criteria, securing financing, and navigating regulatory and market complexities.

Examples of activity within biogospodarka include using agricultural residues for biogas and bioenergy, producing bio-based plastics and chemicals via fermentation, processing lignocellulosic biomass, and developing wood-based materials and algal products for various applications.