Karl Vanlouwe Backs Stronger EU Bioeconomy to Boost Competitiveness and Sustainability in the EU

Members of the NAT Commission have approved Karl Vanlouwe’s opinion on a strategic framework for a competitive and sustainable EU Bioeconomy, recognising its important contribution to strengthening Europe’s competitiveness, strategic autonomy and green transition. The opinion highlights the key role of local and regional authorities in implementing the bioeconomy through place-based approaches, better access to funding and a simplification of EU rules. It also advocates stronger public procurement incentives and targeted investments in bio-based industries and infrastructure to accelerate the market uptake of bio-based products.

In a draft opinion, the Rapporteur calls for increased support for innovation, industrial scale-up and the development of regional bio-based value chains. At the same time, he stresses the need to ensure the sustainable use of biomass while safeguarding biodiversity and food security.

Rapporteur Karl Vanlouwe underlined the strategic importance of the sector: “A strong European bioeconomy is not only essential for sustainability, but also for our competitiveness and strategic autonomy. To truly succeed, bio-based products must become competitive, profitable for businesses, and affordable for consumers”, he said.

The opinion further calls for enhanced international cooperation to strengthen the EU’s position as a global leader in the sustainable bioeconomy and to unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation across Europe’s regions. It will be adopted during October 2026 Plenary Session.