(especially in the field of bio-based raw materials) There are a lot of conferences happening in the Netherlands these days. Open LinkedIn and you'll see one lineup after another. Because I'm in that bubble, meetings about energy and chemistry dominate my timeline. I attend some of them, like this week's annual Energy Day of the online magazine Energeia.
The Dutch biotech association HollandBIO is calling on the European Commission to explicitly embed biotechnology in European circular policy. In a November 11th press release, the organization explains that biotech can help close material and carbon flows more effectively, provided that regulations and market conditions allow for this. The timing is relevant, as Brussels is working on several…
On October 31, the cabinet sent Parliament a long-term vision for the future of the Dutch chemical industry. The letter states that the sector is strategically important for the economy and resilience and that it remains indispensable in a circular economy. The vision is accompanied by two documents with policy guidelines and…
Bioenergy Europe has launched an overview page with facts and supporting sources. The page compiles figures, context, and background on topics such as forest management, heating with pellets, and carbon removal with BECCS. It's a useful starting point for anyone looking for quick insight into discussions about availability, price, and climate impact. Forests are under pressure due to climate change. The organization…
When Ingrid Goumans starts talking about her work at Avantium, where she's Director of Public Affairs, something shifts in her demeanor. Her eyes light up, her voice quickens, and it's immediately clear: this is someone who believes in what she does. Not because she has to, but because it feels like a meaningful choice. "The idea that your work contributes to a cleaner world—that's what makes the difference for me," she says.
Biobased materials are appearing in several submissions for this year's Wubbo Ockels Innovation Award. From a field of 63 ideas, the jury selected ten finalists who will present their plans in Amsterdam on November 7th. The themes range from circularity and food to water and energy transition, with a striking focus on natural resources and renewable fibers.
IEA Bioenergy is asking researchers and practitioners to share recent insights on the role of bioenergy in pathways to net zero and net negative. The call focuses on two areas: how bioenergy systems connect with other energy systems and with land-based climate options such as reforestation, planting, and biochar. And how the supply of biomass from agriculture…
The Probos Foundation is submitting a draft report on the extent to which Dutch timber harvesting regulations align with European requirements for sustainable forest biomass. The report compares the criteria from the revised Renewable Energy Directive with Dutch legislation and oversight. Stakeholders can share their views in November, after which a final version will follow. Review on…
The call to halt nature loss is growing. Companies and policymakers want to know the impact of their choices on species and ecosystems. Life cycle assessment, known for its climate footprints, is now also promoting biodiversity. A new report from IEA Bioenergy Task 45 describes how this can be achieved and where the biggest obstacles lie. LCA is adding biodiversity. LCA is standardized...
ChemistryNL is making a total of €1,8 million available in the second round of three grant calls. These are for public-private projects in the areas of water quality and monitoring, bio-based feedstocks, and carbon capture and utilization. Applications can be submitted until 2:00 PM on Friday, January 16, 2026. The program focuses on research that directly contributes…
