THE ROLE OF BIOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE BIOECONOMY – CASE OF POTATO AND ITS BENEFICIAL MICROORGANISMS INTERACTIONS

Abstract

The primary objective of this paper was threefold. Firstly, the importance and impact of knowledge factors in the economy were reviewed. Secondly, the role of innovations in biological sciences was identified and the role of biological knowledge in the development of bioeconomy was assessed. Finally, the case of potato (Solanum tuberosum) and its beneficial microorganisms interactions, as an example of the knowledge-based innovations in agricultural production in Poland, was presented. Based on the systematic literature review high importance of knowledge factor, considered as the main resource, in the development of economic systems was identified. It is argued that knowledge is a specific resource, not subject to the same laws as the other production factors (land, labor, and capital). Unlike other resources, which are exhausted when used, knowledge can be shared and thrive through its use. From the inception of the bioeconomy concept the knowledge, a part of technology, and renewable biological resources was considered as primary driver. As bioeconomy is assuming the development of an economic system that is sustainable and climate-neutral, especially biological knowledge is crucial in its growth. The diffusion of biological knowledge-based innovations in agricultural production can be achieved by using beneficial microorganisms and their interactions with arable crops. Their interactions with potatoes show positive effects and the diffusion of such innovations in Poland is mostly conditioned by the experiences of farmers, which should be strengthened through network facilitation.