The EU Council has approved conclusions supporting a new bioeconomy strategy that aims to scale bio-based and circular solutions across European industries by 2040.
The strategy promotes renewable biological resources like plants, animals and microorganisms to produce food, energy and industrial goods. It positions these as fossil-free alternatives across relevant sectors.
“Competitiveness, sustainability and homegrown innovation must be at the core of the EU’s path toward a resilient bioeconomy by 2040 and Europe’s strategic autonomy,” said Maria Panayiotou, Minister for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of Cyprus.
The Council backs increased innovation and investment support for sustainable bio-based solutions, including faster approvals and simplified regulations. It also calls for Europe to lead global action in bioeconomy development.
Creating predictable demand for sustainable bio-based materials and technologies is essential to unlock private investment. The Council stresses the need to identify and strengthen high-potential sectors, or lead markets.
These markets should extend beyond those listed in the EU strategy, such as bio-based plastics, chemicals, construction products and fertilizers. Additional sectors could include footwear, textiles, paper and the blue bioeconomy using algae and sponges.
The EU is largely self-sufficient in biomass supply at around 90 percent. The Council calls for ensuring sustainable biomass supply through resource-efficient use across value chains. It promotes the use of byproducts, bio-waste and residues.
The bioeconomy supports nearly one in twelve jobs across the EU, with a workforce of 17.1 million. In 2023, total value was estimated at €2.7 trillion. The sector is identified as the fastest-growing in the Union while safeguarding the environment and supporting circularity.
The updated strategy was adopted by the European Commission on November 27, 2025 in response to previous Council conclusions and the European Council’s strategic agenda for 2024-2029.
