A central theme in this chapter is the integration of the bioeconomy with the circular economy, a concept that emphasizes continual material use, resource efficiency, and waste minimization. The idea of a circular bioeconomy merges these two paradigms, promoting the sustainable use and reuse of biological resources. This synergy is essential for achieving long-term sustainability goals, aligning economic development with ecological boundaries (Kardung et al., 2021).
The chapter also revisits historical economic theories, such as those proposed by the Physiocrats and von Thünen, to contextualize the principles of the circular economy within a broader economic framework. It underscores the relevance of price systems, spatial logistics, and resource flows in shaping sustainable economic systems. Additionally, it critically examines the Planetary Boundary Approach, stressing the need for flexible, dynamic models that accurately reflect the complex interplay between human activity and environmental systems.
Furthermore, this chapter presents empirical findings and methodological innovations from the BioMonitor project that enhance our understanding of the bioeconomy’s contributions to sustainable development. It explores advanced modeling tools such as input-output analysis, material flow models, and hybrid frameworks, which provide valuable insights into the bioeconomy's economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Finally, the chapter concludes with future opportunities and challenges that await the EU bioeconomy.
WESSELER Justus;
CINGIZ Kutay;
DELAHAYE Roel;
KARDUNG Maximilian;
LAZORCAKOVA Ema;
VAN LEEUWEN Myrna;
VAN MEIJL Hans;
M'BAREK Robert;
PHILIPPIDIS George;
RONZON Tevecia;
SAUER Johannes;
SOREGAROLI Claudio;
STURM Viktoriya;
TASSINARI Gianmaria;
TETERE Vinete;
VERKERK Pieter Johannes;
MARIA Vrachioli;
2026-03-31
Springer
JRC142492
978-3-032-07111-8 (online),
https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-032-07112-5,
https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/978-3-032-07112-5_5,
https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC142492,
10.1007/978-3-032-07112-5 (online),
