The European Commission has adopted a new Strategic Framework for a Competitive and Sustainable EU Bioeconomy, setting out measures to accelerate the shift towards renewable biological resources and reduce dependence on fossil imports. This initiative is expected to create new opportunities for marine biotechnology, algae-based products and bio-based solutions derived from the sea.
According to the Commission, the bioeconomy “offers Europe a chance to strengthen its resilience, replace fossil-based materials and products, create jobs and lead the global shift to clean industries”. The biomanufacturing and biotechnologies in delivering “sustainable practical solutions”.
Marine biotechnology is among the areas identified with high potential in the emerging markets for bio-based materials and technologies. The Commission cites examples such as bio-based chemicals produced from algae for pharmaceuticals, personal care products and industrial applications. These products form part of a bioeconomy valued at €2.7 trillion in 2023, employing 17.1 million people.
To support scale-up, the Strategy aims to channel more EU funding towards bio-based technologies and to create Bioeconomy Investment Deployment Group to bring forward bankable projects and attract private capital. A planned Bio-based Europe Alliance would bring companies together to collectively purchase €10 billion in bio-based solutions by 2030, potentially boosting demand for marine-delivered ingredients and materials.
The Commission also stresses the importance of ensuring sustainable biomass supply from both land and sea, and promoting circular use of secondary biomass, including organic waste and by-products from aquaculture and fisheries.
With its strong research base and marine industries, the EU sees itself as well positioned to lead global development in sustainable bio-based technologies, including those coming from the ocean.
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