The Bioeconomy

The 'bioeconomy' is the idea of an economy based on the sustainable exploitation of biological resources. Within this concept, there is increasing emphasis on issues such as climate change, depletion of natural resources and growing world food needs. The bioeconomy builds on the recognition of advances in technology, particularly in the life sciences, but at the same time covers issues such as innovation management, ecosystem services, development and governance.

This book explores the development of the bioeconomy across the world from an economic and policy perspective, as well as identifying potential future pathways and issues. It uses a broad definition, covering all sectors using biological resources except health, and rather than focusing on individual sectors, it explores the breadth of interconnections that make the bioeconomy a new and challenging subject.

Divided into two parts, the book initially outlines the current definitions, strategies, policy and economic information related to the world's bioeconomy. The second part describes current economic analysis and research efforts in qualifying and understanding the economics of the bioeconomy. This includes the contributions of technology, research and innovation; driving forces and demand-side economics; supply-side economics, and the role of markets and public policy in matching demand and supply. The political economy, regulation and transitions are considered, as well as the contribution of the bioeconomy to society, including growth, development and sustainability.

Key features include:
— An analysis of varied international approaches to the bioeconomy.
— A joint consideration of biotechnology, agriculture, food energy and bio-materials.
— An assessment of sustainability in the bioeconomy.
— A comprehensive view of the issues from an economic and policy perspective.

This book will be of interest to students and researchers in agricultural and natural resource economics, agricultural and environmental policy, as well as policy-makers, practitioners and economists.