Biotechnology plays a crucial role in the circular bioeconomy, which is a sustainable economic system that aims to reduce waste and promote the efficient use of resources. The circular bioeconomy is based on the principles of a circular economy, which aims to eliminate waste by promoting the reuse, repair, and recycling of products and materials.

Circular bioeconomy is gaining prominence in academic, policy, and industry contexts, linking circular economy and bioeconomy agendas in service of sustainability. However, it is at risk of developing in narrow, unsustainable ways. A sustainable path to circular bioeconomy must embrace diverse expert and stakeholder input, multiple solutions, and noneconomic value.[1]

Circular bioeconomy signifies the convergence of circular economy and bioeconomy agendas, with varying degrees of emphasis on biotechnology. Its recent delineation in research papers, policy documents and industry practices has resulted in the marginalisation of several important social, ethical, and ecological dimensions, and risks setting circular bioeconomy on an unsustainable trajectory.[1]

A circular economy tries to reduce the dependency on (new) natural resource extraction while increasing the time resources spend within the Technosphere through alternate use cycles. The circular economy can be complemented by the bioeconomy, a concept that can incorporate economic activities related to the invention, development, production, and use of biological products and processes for energy, materials, and chemicals (Bio future). The resulting intersection can be referred to as the “circular bioeconomy.[2]

Figure 1.Biotechnology and the Circular Bioeconomy

Figure 1 shows Biotechnology can contribute to the circular bioeconomy by enabling the efficient conversion of waste materials into valuable products. For example, biotechnology can be used to convert agricultural waste, such as crop residues and animal manure, into biofuels, bioplastics, and other valuable chemicals. Biotechnology can also be used to break down and recycle plastic waste, which is a major environmental challenge.

Biotechnology can also contribute to the circular bioeconomy by enabling the production of sustainable biomaterials. For example, biotechnology can be used to produce biodegradable plastics from renewable resources such as plant sugars and lignin. Biotechnology can also be used to develop new materials from agricultural residues, such as bio composites and bio-based textiles.

In addition, biotechnology can contribute to the circular bioeconomy by promoting sustainable food production and reducing waste in the food system. For example, biotechnology can be used to develop crops that are more resilient to environmental stressors and disease, which can help reduce food waste. Biotechnology can also be used to develop new food processing and preservation technologies that can help extend the shelf life of food and reduce food waste.

Overall, biotechnology plays a crucial role in enabling the transition to a circular bioeconomy, which is essential for promoting sustainable economic growth and reducing the environmental impact of human activities. By developing and deploying biotechnology in a responsible and sustainable way, we can promote a more efficient, resilient, and equitable economy that benefits both people and the planet.

References:

1. https://www.cell.com/trends/biotechnology/fulltext/S0167-7799(20)30292-4
2. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frsus.2021.701509/full

Cite this article:

Janani R (2023),Biotechnology and the Circular Bioeconomy, Anatechmaz, pp.151