Regions should have a bigger role in Europe’s bioeconomy strategy

Empowering regions can boost innovation, create jobs and strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy.

On 14 October, the European Committee of the Regions unanimously adopted an opinion drafted by Karl Vanlouwe, calling for local and regional authorities to play a stronger role in shaping and implementing the EU’s bioeconomy strategy.

With 17.1 million jobs and €863 billion in value added, the bioeconomy offers significant opportunities to strengthen regional value chains, support farmers and SMEs, and drive sustainable growth, particularly in rural areas.

The CoR calls for stronger regional involvement in EU governance and investment, simpler rules for businesses, and measures to boost demand for bio-based products. Regions must be partners in building a competitive, sustainable European bioeconomy—not just implementing EU policies.

Mr Vanlouwe said, “Europe has the knowledge, regional clusters and entrepreneurs to turn bio-based innovations into successful businesses, but too many start-ups struggle to scale up because of complex and fragmented rules. By making it easier to bring these solutions to market and strengthening regional value chains, we can create jobs and reinforce Europe’s strategic autonomy.”