Development of the Nordic bioeconomy : NCM reporting : test centers for green energy solutions - biorefineries and business needs

Nordic co-operation has firm traditions in politics, the economy, and culture. It plays an important role in European and international collaboration, and aims at creating a strong Nordic community in a strong Europe. Nordic co-operation seeks to safeguard Nordic and regional interests and principles in the global community. Common Nordic values help the region solidify its position as one of the world's most innovative and competitive. In 2014 NCM initiated a new project: 2Test centers for green energy solutions - Biorefineries and Business needs3 to strengthen Nordic bioeconomy by identifying potentials, obstacles, needs and opportunities. The Nordic bioeconomy has a unique profile: Upgrade of many types of residues also to higher value products; good collaboration between private and public sector; R & D efforts in all Nordic countries. However, shortcomings were also identified: few activities across Nordic countries beyond designated Nordic programs; too few upscaling facilities; need for improved framework conditions (within regulatory and market stimulus) for biobased products. This report is part of the Nordic Prime Ministers' green growth initiative: 2The Nordic Region - leading in green growth3 - read more in the web magazine 2Green Growth the Nordic Way3 at www.nordicway.org or at www.norden.org/greengrowth Introduction; Terms of reference; 1.1 Background; 1.2 Scoping of the new Bioeconomy, a part of the Circular Economy; 1.2.1 References; 1.3 Conclusions; 1.4 Trends and Actions; 1.5 Recommendations; 1. Strengthen the bioeconomy as an area of high priority for Nordic collaboration; 2. Collaborate to achieve and maintain a Nordic competitive edge in the bioeconomy; 5. Coordinate Nordic policy and incentive structures for commercializing biobased products; 6. Combine Nordic efforts to update the EU regulatory framework for biobased products