Room: Poster Area
Date: Tuesday, 19 May 2026
Time: 15:00 - 16:00 CEST
Session code 2AV.1
Sustainability assessments of biomass and bioenergy and social perspectives
Resource Uncertainty as a Hindrance Factor for the Innovation System in the Regional Sustainable Circular Bioeconomy
Short Introductive summary
The transition toward a sustainable and circular bioeconomy (CBE) is a cornerstone of European climate and innovation policy. However, this transformation is hindered by uncertainties surrounding the availability and predictability of biomass feedstocks. While such resource uncertainty has been recognized as a key barrier to innovation at the national level, its impact on regional innovation systems (RIS), where the CBE is actually implemented, remains insufficiently understood. This study examines how resource uncertainty affects key actors within a regional innovation system and explores strategies to mitigate its effects. Using a literature review and a qualitative case study of the Rhenish mining district in Germany, semi-structured interviews with regional stakeholders reveal how uncertainty shapes regional innovation dynamics. The research further evaluates the potential of adaptive policy mixes, such as improved monitoring, certification, and cross-sectoral collaboration, to alleviate resource-related barriers. By situating resource uncertainty within a regional context, the study advances understanding of the systemic challenges influencing the realization of CBE in Europe.
Presenter
Florian GREBE
Niederrhein Institute for Regional and Structural Research, GERMANY
Biographies and Short introductive summaries are supplied directly by presenters and are published here unedited
Co-authors:
A. Krehl, Niederrhein Institute for Regional and Structural Research, Mönchengladbach, GERMANY
Session reference: 2AV.1.3