People in the Bioeconomy 2044

The global demand and supply equation has become increasingly difficult to solve, so new thinking is critical for the sustainable future of the globe. We at VTT believe bioeconomy represents this new kind of thinking. Growing national and global interest in sustainable development is expected to make bioeconomy an essential part of the economic system in the years to come. The Bioeconomy is especially important for Finland. It already accounts for about EUR 60 billion of GDP, and a doubling of this amount by 2030 is considered possible. The Bioeconomy does not happen by itself, but it requires a strong will, ambitious targets, and action towards these targets. New technical, societal and business innovations are needed along the way, with science and technology as the key enablers. A successful bioeconomy requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining disciplines ranging from chemistry to design. As a cross-cutting approach it has an effect on the whole of society, linking food security and people s well-being to the sustainable use of raw materials and natural resources. VTT forms a platform for an innovation ecosystem attracting industrial and other stakeholders from Finland and elsewhere to make the Bioeconomy happen.