The Science Year 2020 - Bioeconomy has got off to a successful start. There are numerous exciting contributions nationwide, especially on the Internet. Core groups of the BioSC are also participating.

In 2018 and 2019 there were SEED FUND calls within the framework of phase 2 of the NRW strategy project BioSC. The OPEN Calls were without thematic restrictions while the LINK calls focused on topics related to the FocusLabs. A total of 10 projects were selected. The first three SEED FUND 2.0 OPEN projects were completed at the end of 2019 after a one-year term.

The 7th BioSC Spotlight took place at RWTH Aachen University on 5th February. Scientists from different disciplines discussed challenges and new developments for the production of materials and chemicals from the heterogeneous raw materials of a circular economy.

A BioSC workshop on the recycling of plastic waste was held in Aachen on 10th February. 45 scientists and entrepreneurs discussed different aspects of the topic ranging from depolymerisation to biotechnological and chemical conversion as well as the quantification of microplastics.

The textile and clothing industry is the third largest economic sector worldwide and the second largest consumer industry in Germany after the food industry. It is heavily dependent on oil. The Institute of Textile Technology at RWTH Aachen University conducts research on innovative approaches and processes for the use of natural and synthetic fibres from renewable resources.

Save the date: The 5th International BioSC Symposium is planned for 16 and 17 November 2020 in Berlin, in the run-up to the 3rd Global Bioeconomy Summit.

Further information on dates and calls for proposals can be found here.