“Uncoupling the use of raw materials from economic growth is impossible. You can’t create a circular economy just by tweaking the existing economy. We will have to change our lifestyle and our business models to avoid moving in the wrong direction. That requires a complete makeover.”

Oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth's surface. They are a source of biodiversity with enormous potential, which is largely unexplored and underestimated. We now know more about the moon than we do about the bottom of the ocean. The Portuguese programme Blue Bio Value wants to change this by supporting start-ups in the blue bio economy.

Sixteen organisations operating in the Dutch bioeconomy have signed a joint letter to the prime minister designate and the parliamentary leaders of the parties, in which they argue for the increased use of bio raw materials that must be valorised to the maximum possible, and a centrally coordinated approach to their use.