Between 6-8 October 2024, in Sinaia, a significant meeting of experts in the field of bioeconomy was held, marking the official kick-off meeting of the National Bioeconomy HUB for Romania (BOOST4BIOEAST project).
The main goal of the national Bioeconomy Hub community is to create a framework for intersectoral collaboration for the development and validation of an action plan that supports the national and regional strategy for the bioeconomy. This launch event served as a platform to bring stakeholders on board and establish the roadmap for promoting the bioeconomy at both national and regional levels. The primary objective of the meeting was to validate the narrative of the HUB, to propose discussion themes and approaches, and to present the activities planned for the HUB. It also represented the focal point when collaboration between stakeholders and the HUB management team was formally announced.
The event provided an opportunity for animated discussions on challenges, innovation needs, and actionable priorities for the national bioeconomy. Moreover, The HUB’s role and objectives were highlighted, creating momentum for future dissemination and collaboration. The meeting included participants adhering to the multi-actor principle, bringing together representatives from the academic environment (researchers and university leaders), policymakers (e.g., Ministry of Agriculture), research fund managers, farmers’ associations, economic partners (clusters, producers, NGOs), and innovators.
The presentations covered general aspects related to bioeconomy and circular economy, but also specific ones, about innovations in agri-food systems, generating additional income through the use of organic waste resulting from agriculture, the use of advanced materials obtained from biological sources (with application in medicine), the use of products with a low CO2 footprint to correct soil acidity, but also success stories regarding the implementation of projects in the field of bioeconomy.
Participants emphasized the importance of building a compelling and validated narrative to reflect prior research and stakeholder input. The meeting concluded with a clear call to action for fostering intersectoral collaboration and creating a coherent action plan to advance the national bioeconomy. This event marks a decisive step toward establishing a platform for collaboration and innovation, ensuring the HUB becomes a driving force for sustainable development in bioeconomy. The activity of the hub will be further supported by mirror thematic working groups (mTWGs) related to Bioeconomy.
For more information about the National Bioeconomy HUB, membership within mirror TWGs or the BOOST4BIOEAST initiative in Romania, please contact Steliana RODINO, steliana.rodino@yahoo.com, Romanian HUB coordinator.