Building the Bioeconomy: The Role of Biomaterials
Event background
Bioeconomy 2.0 refers to the research and development of the next generation of bio-based solutions aimed towards renewable, reusable, recyclable and sustainable production. Biomaterials could be considered an alternative to chemicals derived from fossil fuels while promoting the transition to a circular bioeconomy. In doing so, this could create a more stable system and allow economies to gain independence from unsustainable resources. How can the biomaterials industry continue to grow and position itself as a primary sustainable choice for the future?
The three main purposes of the event were to:
- Examine the uses for biomaterials across a breadth of industry, including its potential role in medical devices.
- Explore how to better unlock investment into the sector to allow the industry to help achieve its economic and sustainability goals.
- Discuss how to educate and engage the wider public about the benefits of biomaterials in Society.
Professor Roy was invited as her research expertise is in biomaterials, specifically how natural polymers of bacterial origin can be used in medical and environmental applications.
I was delighted to be invited to this event because it gave me the opportunity to inform and discuss with policymakers the huge potential of Biobased materials in shaping the future economy of the UK. I discussed the fact that there were many types of Biobased materials which could easily substitute the current fossil based materials. Also, the fact that they can be processed using existing infrastructure. There was concern that there will not be enough raw material required for the production of Biobased materials, to which I emphasised that waste material can be used as starting materials. Finally, and not the least I emphasised the need for the UK to start manufacturing Biobased materials rather then relying on importing them from other countries.
Professor Ipsita Roy
About IPT breakfast meetings
IPT events are intimate roundtable discussions which focus on a topical area of policy and ask critical questions in a balanced and inclusive way, facilitated by senior decision makers within industry and Parliament. These meetings address the gaps in communication between the arenas of industry and Parliament and enable insight and mutual understanding between the two. Supported by academic commentary and cutting-edge research, the delegates of the meeting will share their perspectives and experiences of the issue to facilitate peer-to-peer engagement in a safe environment under Chatham House Rule. These discussions aim to build up sustained debate and allow industry and Parliament to reflect on how best to work together on an issue.