The effects of climate change have long been felt all over the world, and Baden-Württemberg is no exception. Summer heat waves, droughts, storms and forest fires are no longer a rare occurrence. The ruthless exploitation of natural resources is associated with both ecological and societal problems. In order to preserve natural resources, we must reduce our consumption to a sustainable level. The bioeconomy offers promising solutions in working towards this goal.

I would like to extend a warm welcome to all those taking part in the 3rd International Bioeconomy Congress Baden-Württemberg.

Under the heading "The contribution that the bioeconomy can make to the Green Deal", the first virtual International Bioeconomy Congress will address the question of how innovative products, processes and regional circular economies can all contribute to reducing environmental pollution, increasing resource efficiency and mitigating climate change. Over the course of two days, the online congress featuring high-profile speakers, expert discussions and other interesting formats will provide an important platform for participants to exchange information, experiences and ideas. Alongside the University of Hohenheim and the BIOPRO Baden-Württemberg organisation, the interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary congress is being hosted by four state ministries.

The potential of the bioeconomy was recognised early on in Baden-Württemberg; indeed, the "Bioeconomy research programme" was launched back in 2012. With the new state strategy "Sustainable Bioeconomy for Baden-Württemberg", approved in 2019, we are pooling existing and planned activities across departments with the aim of applying the newly acquired knowledge and expertise. With the help of this state strategy, we hope to succeed in transitioning to a circular and more sustainable economy. Furthermore, we hope that it will serve to preserve biodiversity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

As one of the most innovative regions in Europe, the state has the necessary expertise to advance environmentally friendly and resource-saving technologies that boost resource efficiency. There is still great potential in this area. Events such as the Bioeconomy Congress are crucial in paving the way towards a more environmentally and climate-friendly future, as they enable us to learn from one another and establish further networks. Sustainability and climate protection are key global challenges that can only be successfully addressed if all fields and sectors of society collaborate in a joint effort.

Although current discussions are dominated by the Coronavirus pandemic, we must not lose sight of other issues. For this reason, I am delighted that the congress has been made possible despite the challenging situation we face. My sincere thanks go to all those who have contributed to the organisation of the 3rd International Bioeconomy Congress.I hope that the participants gain exciting new insights, enjoy enriching discussions and come away with inspiration for their future work.

I hope that the participants gain exciting new insights, enjoy enriching discussions and come away with inspiration for their future work.

Winfried Kretschmann

At a time when the consequences of climate change are already being clearly felt around the world, when the scarcity of resources is increasingly becoming a topic of discussion, and when questions of food security are coming under renewed scrutiny, bioeconomy is also playing an ever more important role as an alternative to former economic methods. However, bioeconomy can only make a major contribution to these 21st century challenges if research and development form the basis for the proposed transition to as sustainable bioeconomy. It will not be enough to just create a new raw material base. Rather, it is necessary to focus on the sustainable performance of the entire value chain from the production, conditioning, and conversion of biobased raw materials to the acceptance of these materials by consumers and by society as a whole. In other words: To enable the bioeconomy to reach its full potential, research efforts must be interdisciplinary. Close cooperation between interdisciplinary fields and institutions – among research, innovation, and practice – at regional, national and international level is an indispensable basis for this. Because Bioeconomy is both local and global.

The Coordination Office Bioeconomy Research Baden-Württemberg is an excellent example for a successful networking structure, which fostering rigorous, relevant and responsible research, and transferring knowledge into society and the economy. We are very grateful for the structural and financial support provided by the Baden-Württemberg government and that the Coordination Office Bioeconomy Research Baden-Württemberg has been at home here in Hohenheim since 2014. In addition, the Bioeconomy Research Program Baden-Württemberg has enabled us in the past six years to even better contribute to national and international research on bioeconomy. Three research networks in the fields biogas, lignocellulose and microalgae, an integrative competence network entitled modelling the bioeconomy, as well as a cross-location graduate programme have been funded. We hope that proven structures such as the Coordination Office Bioeconomy Research Baden-Württemberg will continue to be supported within the framework of the new state strategy for a sustainable bioeconomy adopted in summer 2019.

Due to the outstanding importance of an interdisciplinary approach to the topic, we are very grateful for the opportunity for scientific exchange given by the 3^rd International Bioeconomy Congress. I would like to wish stimulating discussions and ideas for future collaborative projects to all those who will be participating in this interesting entirely digital event.

„With its diverse and excellent research landscape and the interdisciplinary networks established over the past six years as part of the Bioeconomy research program, Baden-Württemberg is ideally positioned to deal with the complex issues related to the sustainable transformation of the economy“.

Theresia Bauer

"The bioeconomy concept incorporates biological knowledge, which is based on natural material cycles. The agricultural and the forest-based sector have been applying these principles for centuries and are therefore an essential pillar of a circular bioeconomy. It is now necessary to further develop these proven concepts by incorporating new key technologies."

Peter Hauk

“Bio-intelligence is an issue which is extremely relevant for the future and offers great potential for the economy of our state. Bio-intelligent solutions can revolutionise a whole range of production processes and can be used to develop entirely new manufacturing methods, materials and products. Baden-Württemberg has the opportunity to become a trailblazer and contribute to shaping the future in this field with outstanding concepts.”

Dr. Nicole Hoffmeister-Kraut

„Transforming our economy into a sustainable bio-economy is a key element of our state’s policy.“

„Bio-economy is a key factor to realise circular ecnomy.“

„I am confident that Baden-Württemberg, with the innovative strength of its people and the joint support of the state government, can become a model region for all aspects of bio-economy.“

Franz Untersteller