The transition to a sustainable bioeconomy is gaining momentum, with biological waste playing a crucial role in replacing fossil-based resources. However, the success of bio-based industries depends on the acceptance of products derived from biological waste, as well as the adaptation of certification schemes to ensure sustainability, origin, and traceability.
The EU-funded BioReCer (Biological Resources Certification Schemes) project is tackling this challenge by strengthening certification frameworks for biological resources. With the project now in its final phase, stakeholder participation is more critical than ever in shaping certification standards that foster transparency and trust across the bio-based value chain.
Milestones on the Road to Effective Certification
Assessing Feedstock Flows Across Key Sectors
The BioReCer project has conducted in-depth Material Flow Analyses (MFAs) to assess feedstock flows in four key sectors—fishery, forestry, agriculture, and municipalities—that produce substantial amounts of biogenic waste and residues. Findings indicate that large volumes of organic residues are currently underutilized, with a significant percentage being discarded rather than repurposed for bio-based products such as bioplastics, fertilizers, and nutraceuticals.
Despite technological advancements in circular bio-based industries, challenges remain in optimizing closed-loop processes for biological waste. BioReCer is working to bridge these gaps by providing strategic insights and policy recommendations that support industry adoption.
Introducing the BioReCer ICT Tool (BIT): A Digital Backbone for Sustainability
The BioReCer ICT Tool (BIT) serves as an innovative platform that enhances the traceability, environmental performance, and social acceptance of bio-based products. This self-assessment tool allows stakeholders to evaluate feedstock sustainability, track CO₂ emissions, and determine compliance with certification requirements. Currently in its final development phase, BIT has benefited from extensive feedback from industry participants, certification bodies, and policymakers.
Setting Standards for the EU Bioeconomy
BioReCer has developed a Standardization Toolkit containing 149 national and international standards (e.g., UNI, EN, ISO) and 26 certification schemes (including ISCC) relevant to the bio-based sector. By adhering to these standards, industry professionals can ensure best practices in environmental management, circular economy strategies, and sustainable product development.
Policy Recommendations for a Sustainable Bioeconomy
To accelerate the transition to a circular bioeconomy, BioReCer has formulated seven key policy recommendations:
- Define organic residues and establish clear sustainability goals for bio-based materials and products.
- Encourage the use of organic residues in the EU bio-based industry where waste reduction is not feasible.
- Set quantitative sustainability targets and strategies for utilizing organic residues.
- Clarify future bio-based product requirements and how they align with organic residue applications.
- Strengthen certification schemes to prevent greenwashing and enhance consumer trust.
- Implement mass balance and free attribution (MBFA) to support a circular bioeconomy.
- Promote consumer awareness of bio-based products and their environmental benefits.
A final policy brief incorporating further project insights will be released in summer 2025.
Why Stakeholder Participation Matters
BioReCer actively engages with bioeconomy stakeholders, certification bodies, consumer associations, and policymakers through the BioResources Stakeholders Platform (BRSP). This interactive forum provides a space for industry experts to contribute insights, share challenges, and collaborate on refining certification frameworks.
To influence the future of bio-based certifications and policies, stakeholders are encouraged to join the BRSP by registering at: https://biorecer.eu/brsp/
Stay Updated
For more information on BioReCer’s progress and initiatives, visit: https://biorecer.eu
Watch the project video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hi5CVZpkV2k
BioReCer is funded by the European Union. The views expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency.
