Strengthening Intersectoral Cooperation for Resilient Bio-Based Value Chains

The BIOECO-UP project carried out a comprehensive assessment of biomass availability and utilisation across Central and Eastern Europe, analysing bio-based innovations, cross-sectoral industrial cooperation, good practices, and governance frameworks. The findings confirmed that agriculture and forestry remain the primary sources of biomass in the region. However, significant volumes of side streams and residues are still underutilised. Agricultural by-products such as manure and plant residues are mainly applied as organic fertilisers, despite their strong potential for renewable energy production or as feedstock for bio-based materials. Similarly, residues from the meat, dairy, fruit, and beverage industries are often discarded instead of being transformed into high-value ingredients or biochemicals. Unlocking this untapped potential could substantially accelerate the transition toward a circular and sustainable bioeconomy.

A central focus of the project was strengthening intersectoral cooperation, which is essential for building resilient and innovative bio-based value chains. By connecting agriculture, forestry, fisheries, food production, and the chemical industry, the bioeconomy fosters more efficient resource use and supports sustainable economic growth. Nevertheless, cooperation is hindered by sectoral silos, regulatory inconsistencies, limited cross-sector knowledge exchange, financial constraints, and market uncertainties. These barriers affect stakeholders differently, from industry and academia to public authorities and civil society.

To address these challenges, BIOECO-UP applied the quadruple helix approach, engaging industry, academia, public authorities, and civil society. Through structured collaboration, early stakeholder involvement, and transparent communication, the project identified sectoral synergies and supported the development of integrated bio-based value chains. Transnational procedures for intersectoral cooperation were tested . with the support of the CE Bioeconomy Stakeholder Forum. Using the “DDIA” (Diagnose–Design–Implement–Assess) method, partners developed and validated alternative bioeconomy value chains through workshops, matchmaking events, co-creation sessions, and peer review.

Practical demonstration and dissemination were also key components. A BIOECO-UP Fair of Bio-Based Products, using the  National Agriculture and Food Exhibition and Fair (OMÉK) platform in Budapest, showcased 16 bio-based brands from seven CEE countries. The event provided valuable market exposure and direct consumer feedback. International cooperation was further reinforced through living lab testing.

A major legacy of the project is the establishment of the CEE Bioeconomy Stakeholder Forum with 20 external partners signing its memorandum to ensure continued collaboration beyond the project’s duration. By combining policy recommendations, stakeholder engagement, innovation testing, and international networking, BIOECO-UP contributed a solid foundation for advancing a competitive, circular, and socially inclusive bioeconomy in Central Europe.

We are pleased to present a comprehensive collection of our project results, available on the project website and the BIOEAST Knowledge Platform. Explore our publications and materials below.

• Analysis and Mapping of Bioeconomy potentials in CEE countries
• Report on transnational testing of intersectoral cooepration procedures
• Transnational peer review of draft procedures for bioeconomy intersectoral cooperation