Sustainable, circular and innovative value chains

Why does research and innovation on sustainable, circular and innovative value chains matter?

Sustainable, diverse and resilient value chains are a prerequisite for sustainable rural growth, for food security and for the sustainable use of biological resources.

Food and other bio-based products supply chains operate in an increasingly complex and dynamic environment characterised by new consumer demands, new and sometimes game-changing technologies, changing structures and cooperation modes.

The use of new and innovative business models can generate higher income for producers while keeping consumer prices affordable and improving the delivery of environmental and social benefits.

Research has a role to play in unravelling the links between the complexity of food systems and their efficiency, resilience and sustainability. It needs to develop the understanding of food chain dynamics and their interaction with non-food chains.

Farmers and foresters have for a long time produced bio-based products. The need to decarbonise the agricultural and the energy sectors to meet climate change goals is compounded with considerations of resource efficiency, and an increasing interest in green chemicals, green growth and circular economy.

Research and innovation in this area addresses low-carbon, short-chain or circular delivery systems for innovative bio-based applications, using a systems approach for the provision of biomass for all uses, whilst preserving the delivery of ecosystem services.