EU Outlook for Biomass Flows and Bio‐based Products

Abstract

SummaryThe Bioeconomy Strategy Action Plan calls for sustainable extraction, processing, and use of biological resources in Europe as a pathway to achieve environmental, social and economic goals. However, the transition towards sustainable food systems within and across countries is diverse due to the existing heterogeneous land patterns and agricultural production structures, the variety of potential industries competing for specific biomass feedstocks, and the national policy frameworks in place. Therefore, it is key for policymakers to understand how biomass is supplied, and how it flows through the economy and is used for alternative purposes. This calls for tools that can monitor and quantitatively analyse these aspects. BioMAT has projected the annual growth rate of the EU bio‐based chemical production from 2018 to 2030 to be four times higher than its fossil‐based counterpart. The associated net‐availability of industrial sugars in 2030 is quite balanced, but excess demands for starch and plant oils will increase to fulfil requirements of a growing bio‐based chemical sector. As a vast amount of biological feedstock for material use originates from non‐EU regions (e.g. palm oil), sustainable sourcing and a better use of biological residues should be emphasised. Scenario analyses are helpful to consider consequences of assessing different technical pathways or policies.