Transitioning to a Circular Economy Safely and Sustainably: A Qualitative Exploration of System Barriers and Drivers for Industrial Biotechnology in the EU

Abstract

Innovations in industrial biotechnology promise great potential for contributing to the circular economy as they can reduce our dependence on fossil-based raw materials. However, their environmental impacts and sustainability benefits can differ greatly. Therefore, it is important to consider the values of safety and sustainability when designing innovative applications for the circular economy transition.

Transitions like the one from a linear to a circular economy are shaped by the dynamics between political, societal, economic, and technological developments. Insights from actors working with industrial biotechnology innovation or policies are useful to explore the barriers and drivers of legislation, culture, and the market in a circular economy transition.

Results indicate that sustainability legislation, genetically modified organism (GMO) legislation, governmental policies, and societal resistance hinder early research and development and appear to delay sustainable industrial biotechnology applications from entering the European market. But the tide might be changing. As market and societal actors are learning how to navigate the tensions between safety and sustainability, they more openly underscore the sustainability benefits of using genetically modified microorganisms over potential risks to environmental and human safety. European policy and legislation are beginning to recognize the need for integrated policies that align safety, sustainability, and circularity needs.

Keywords

Industrial biotechnology - Netherlands - Circular economy - Transitions - European Union - SSbD

Publikationsverlauf

Eingereicht: 30. Oktober 2024

Angenommen nach Revision: 06. Februar 2025

Accepted Manuscript online:
17. Februar 2025

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
21. März 2025

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