Biopõhine

Biopõhine is an Estonian term meaning derived from biological sources or living matter. It is used to describe materials, processes, or products that rely on renewable biological resources rather than fossil resources.

In practice, biopõhine products span several sectors, including bioplastics (for example polymers produced from renewable feedstocks), bio-based fuels, enzymes and other fermentation-derived chemicals, and materials that repurpose agricultural or forestry by-products. The term emphasizes the origin of the inputs, rather than the inherent quality of the end product.

Adoption of biopõhine approaches can contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced resource depletion when sustainable feedstocks and production methods are used. However, challenges include competition with food production for feedstocks, land-use concerns, variability in material properties, cost pressures, and the need for clear life-cycle assessment and standard definitions to avoid greenwashing.

Biopõhine concepts are integral to contemporary discussions of the bioeconomy in Estonia and the European Union, where policy aims include innovation, sustainable development, and the creation of markets for bio-based products within a framework of environmental criteria.