۱- Introduction

۲- Innovation measurement in the bioeconomy

۳- Innovation indicators for the bioeconomy

۴- Discussion and ways forward

۵- Conclusion

References

Abstract

Innovations in the bioeconomy are expected to provide new solutions to major economic, societal and ecological challenges like resource depletion, food insecurity or climate change. However, information about innovation activities in the bioeconomy and its outcomes is scattered and more systematic measurement efforts are useful for policy making to assess its impact and whether objectives are met. This article provides an overview of information needs and data availability for innovation indicators. Furthermore, data for key input and throughput indicators are presented and discussed for the bioeconomy in Germany. The data indicates a rather strong role of Germany for publications and patents. However, the commercial success remains unclear, because of current limitations in information availability about the output and outcome of innovations efforts. Here, the most critical information gap in exist. In order to improve this situation additional data collection such as innovation survey for the bioeconomy would be needed.

Introduction

The bioeconomy is expected to provide solutions to major economic, societal and ecological challenges like resource depletion, food insecurity or climate change. It is expected that new applications are developed and existing markets will be transformed. Hence, the bioeconomy may have significant impact on value added, employment, distribution of profits and sustainability. To achieve these goals, several developments such as appropriate political framework conditions or better addressment of societal concerns are needed. Moreover, significant progress in the production and use of biogenic resources needed and further innovation is necessary. Life and biological sciences and technologies are required to provide superior performance of bio-based processes, products and services, ensure their sustainability and to improve cost-competitiveness. Indeed, there is a high innovation potential in the bioeconomy ranging from the usage of mostly untapped feedstock (CO2, waste, algae), optimized microorganisms, digitalization in farming, social innovations (urban gardening, collective agriculture, etc.) [1, 2]. Bio-based innovations are not only relevant in high-tech sectors, but also in traditional segments, such as the provision of new materials in textiles (e.g. spider silk) or developing new protein alternatives in the food sectors. Many strategies emphasize the need for new innovations to achieve the respective goals [3–۵]. Various countries are pursuing large efforts to support R&D and innovation in the bioeconomy with significant advances. However, information about the progress of the bio-economy and in particular regarding activities and outcomes of these innovation activities is scattered.