What the EU’s New Bioeconomy Strategy Means for the Blue Economy

The European Commission has presented a new Strategic Framework for a Competitive and Sustainable EU Bioeconomy, defining how Europe will use biological resources from land and sea to build a more resilient, circular and climate-neutral economy. With a sector already valued at €2.7 trillion and employing over 17 million people, the Strategy aims to scale up innovation, strengthen markets for bio-based materials and ensure that biomass is sourced within ecological limits.

A stronger policy foundation for blue value chains

The Strategy prioritises actions that are directly relevant to the blue bioeconomy:

clearer regulatory pathways and investments to bring bio-based innovation to market
support for advanced biorefineries, biotechnology and circular materials
responsible biomass use, including the valorisation of marine and aquatic resources
improved resilience through diversified supply chains and global partnerships

The Commission highlights algae-derived chemicals as an example of high-value innovation, reinforcing the role of aquatic biomass in Europe’s shift away from fossil-based materials.

Alligments with SUBMARINER’s work

SUBMARINER and its network already advance many of the priorities outlined in the Strategy. Our initiatives promote sustainable algae and aquaculture development, regional biorefining capacity, investment-readiness and coherent regulatory dialogue. We work to ensure that the Baltic and North Sea regions act as frontrunners in demonstrating circular, regenerative blue bioeconomy solutions.

Looking ahead

The new Strategy provides a renewed mandate for Europe to scale sustainable bio-based industries. For SUBMARINER, it strengthens the policy context for our ongoing efforts to develop responsible blue value chains and support coastal regions as active contributors to a competitive and nature-positive European bioeconomy.

Read More: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_2819

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