Bioeconomics: the green transition as an opportunity
The bioeconomy is an economic model based on the biophysical limit of growth that aims to use biological resources, including waste, as inputs for producing goods and energy. According to a European classification, primary production sectors (agriculture, livestock, forestry, fisheries, and aquaculture) and industrial sectors that process biological raw materials such as food, feed, pulp and paper, wood processing, chemicals, and energy can form part of the bioeconomy.
Moving toward the bioeconomy requires companies to invest in researching innovative process and product solutions. It is not enough, however, to deploy economic resources if there is a lack of professionals with appropriate skills. That is why the Ellen MacArthur Foundation (one of the world’s largest bodies working to promote the circular economy) launched a major challenge in 2019: to raise awareness among 60 million designers worldwide of the need to “think circular” and convince another 20 million to espouse circular economy principles. The design phase is crucial to the green transition because it helps to limit waste and reduce environmental impact.
More generally, it should not be forgotten that the working world always demands new skills. It is estimated, for example, that a significant part of the activities related to certain sectors, such as fossil fuels and the automotive industry, will be at risk if models and processes are not changed. In parallel, many opportunities will open up for new professional profiles with interdisciplinary and digital skills.