HollandBIO asks Brussels for space for biotech in the circular economy

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…

Behind the scenes at Dutch Water Tech: passion for bio-based raw materials and circular solutions

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.

IEA Bioenergy opens submissions for new perspective on bioenergy towards net zero

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…

ChemistryNL opens subsidy calls for water quality, bio-based raw materials and CCU

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…

Climate Summit Built Environment wants to move from plans to practice

The Climate Summit for the Built Environment will convene at the Jaarbeurs Utrecht on November 5th and 6th. The organizers are expecting a large group of participants from government, construction, and energy. The goal is to accelerate progress, with agreements that extend to the construction site. The summit was established in 2024 out of impatience with the slow implementation. The first edition generated dozens of...

Biomass in the election programs, what do parties want with wood, green gas and biofuels?

The overviews from the Dutch Sustainable Energy Association (NVDE) and BNNVARA show that biomass and biofuels are present in election manifestos in a new way. The focus is clearly shifting from low-grade bulk combustion for power and heat to higher-value applications such as green gas, sustainable aviation fuels, and the use of biofuels in industry and the chemical industry.

Five things you need to know about biogas and biomethane

The European Commission published a review article with five key points on the role of biogas in the energy mix. The article aims to dispel misconceptions and demonstrates how biogas and biomethane can contribute to energy security and climate goals. According to the Commission, in 2023, biogas replaced six percent of natural gas consumption in the EU, representing approximately sixteen million...