How can we involve more people in the biobased transition and stimulate the use of biobased materials? That question is the focus of the SIA Taskforce for Applied Research SPRONG programme 'Living Ecosystem.'

In Mol (Flanders, Belgium), LignoValue was officially opened on 6 October. It is the first and only pilot plant for bio-aromatics from lignin: bio-based chemicals that replace fossil products and perform even better in high-performance applications, such as paints, coatings and composites.

When the Bio-based Industries Consortium was launched in 2012, marine and aquatic biomass was barely discussed. Now, ten years later, BBI JU has 11 awarded projects running in this field with a total budget of €58 million. It is a sign that the value of the blue bioeconomy is being recognised more and more widely.