Better biomass utilisation in the biobased economy
Nova-Institute, together with industry and universities (notably the University of York), developed a new tool for policy and investment decisions: the Biomass Utilisation Efficiency (BUE). BUE analysis will answer two important questions regarding the bioeconomy and bio-based chemicals: how efficiently is biomass utilised? And: what share of biomass ends up in the final product? On
Biobased polymers too have long lead times, says Jan Ravenstijn
The development of new polymers is a lengthy and highly underestimated process, says Jan Ravenstijn. Development of new polymers, like new drugs, will roughly cost about two decades and $ 1 billion. Therefore, it will take quite some time for new biobased polymers and biobased chemicals to reach their full potential. It is not surprising
Another biobased dicarboxylic acid moves toward commercial production, by Verdezyne
At EFIB in Brussels last month, Tom Beardslee proudly presented Verdezyne’s achievements in the production of biobased chemicals. His company will be the first to sell biobased dodecanedioic acid in the market; conveniently called DDDA among insiders. DDDA is a dicarboxylic acid containing 12 C-atoms. It is a component of performance products like 6,12-nylon, used
Controversies on genetic modification, part 2: what’s wrong with Monsanto
In discussions on genetic modification, the name Monsanto invariably produces much controversy. Both its critics and its proponents can be very emotional. We will argue that Monsanto has taken the wrong turn in green biotechnology. This is the second article in a series on controversies on genetic modification. The articles were published on 25 October,
Biobased economy: slow but steady
Although some impatience can be heard among the stakeholders of the biobased economy, there are developments – slow but steady. Here we highlight some of them, though this might still not convince the sceptics. In a recent article, my colleague Paul Reinshagen reported about the general feeling that more ‘guts’ would be needed to drive
3BI – Brokering Bio-Based Innovation
Today at EFIB, some of the main European bioeconomy clusters, from France, Germany, the Netherlands and the UK joined forces as the 3BI intercluster. 3BI is a strategic European partnership that builds on the complementary strengths of four regional innovation clusters. All four clusters use biorefining to convert biological resources into materials, chemicals and fuels.
Controversies on genetic modification, part 1: why to support it
Genetic modification is here to stay, and not just for economic reasons. Many arguments against it do not withstand logical and intellectual scrutiny. But some do, and the GM community would be wise to take these at heart. This is the first article in a series on controversies on genetic modification. The articles were published
Stepwise changes, a ray of sunshine in the climate debate
In preparation for Paris 2015, the new major climate summit, researchers publish many scenarios on the reduction of greenhouse gas production. Over the years, these have become more pessimistic. As the world longer postpones adequate measures, it will have to take more radical measures in order to keep in sight the goal of 2 degrees
