Bioeconomy

Shaping the Future: Solutions for Finite Resources

Microbes, plants, soil, water, residual materials: how can resources be used more sustainably? In their search for solutions, Jülich researchers are working with nature’s building blocks. The goals: bio-based, competitive cycles and solutions for adapting to climate change.

Humanity is overconsuming Earth’s resources. Global warming is putting additional pressure on ecosystems. At the same time, the demand for food and other resources is rising as the global population grows. The United Nations projects that there will be 8.5 billion people in the world by 2030 and nearly 9.7 billion by 2050. Ensuring a good quality of life for all generations to come will require a fundamental shift toward a sustainable economy – one that relies on biological resources, protects nature and the climate, and follows the principles of the circular economy.

Bio-based solutions for a better world that conserves our finite natural resources. At Forschungszentrum Jülich, various disciplines tackle this task together – for a sustainable bioeconomy.

How can we secure human nutrition while transitioning industrial production to renewable raw materials? And what business models and regulatory frameworks will ensure that this transformation is both economically successful and sustainable? At Forschungszentrum Jülich, we develop the foundations and processes needed to make a sustainable bioeconomy work. Our scientists also collaborate closely across Jülich’s other research fields of energy and information, as successful bioeconomy concepts require interdisciplinary expertise.

The foundation for a green economy

Our research focuses on sectors that require significant adaptation as part of the bioeconomic transformation, such as industry and agriculture. We place great emphasis on open dialogue with business and society to deliver impactful solutions for the sustainable use of natural resources.

How exactly? Customized microorganisms and biological catalysts such as enzymes are important building blocks. They can convert plant biomass, excess CO₂,and even plastic waste into valuable chemical substances. At Jülich, we develop automated processes to cultivate useful microbial strains, analyse the entire conversion process – from raw material to final product – and evaluate its sustainability.

Resilient crops for a changing climate

Our plant and agricultural research focuses on making crops more resilient to the impacts of climate change, such as increasing drought and aridity. Which species or varieties are particularly robust? And under which production systems do they deliver high yields despite stress? How can robotics and artificial intelligence help in this process? In the interest of sustainability, we focus on the multiple uses of resources. For example, a plant like the safflower can simultaneously produce high-quality oil for lubricants and fibres for packaging. And with agri-photovoltaics, farmland delivers double the yield: protecting crop harvests while generating green electricity from solar energy.

Digital geodata and simulation systems also play a key role in making agriculture and water management more resilient to climate extremes. Already today, digital geodata and simulation systems “made in Jülich” enable precise real-time forecasts of droughts or forecasts of water availability for agricultural land. Visit: https://wasser-monitor.de/

Data analysis is integral to the bioeconomy. Using computer-based methods and artificial intelligence, we analyse vast data sets to identify promising genes in plants and microorganisms or to optimize bioactive molecules – whether for plant breeding or for medical active ingredients. These insights can drive advancements in agriculture, industry, and medical applications –­ helping us make the most of Earth’s finite resources.

Model region BioökonomieREVIER

Innovative and circular: Jülich research results aim to find practical application in regional bioeconomies. Since 2010, we have been developing solution-oriented concepts in the Bioeconomy Science Center (BioSC) – in collaboration with regional partners.

The BioökonomieREVIER initiative established the idea of transforming the Rhenish lignite mining region – right on our doorstep – into a model for a bio-based economy. By leveraging regional strengths and innovation, we are reshaping this greenhouse gas-intensive economic system into a sustainable and globally recognized bioeconomy region. We believe that the principles applied here can help transform economic systems worldwide.

May 30, 2022

Bioeconomy News

December 30, 1969

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April 15, 2025

Microorganisms

They are invisible, yet indispensable for life on Earth. Microorganisms and their enzymes break down organic material, ensuring that nutrients are returned to the cycle. We harness these abilities to produce valuable products such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and biodegradable plastics from renewable resources and CO₂, creating sustainable solutions for a bio-based circular economy.

More on research

Information

Our powerful supercomputers are among the world’s best. We are also working on computers that utilize completely new technologies, such as quantum computers or computers modelled on the brain.

Energy

Sun, wind, and water instead of coal and oil: what could a sustainable energy system that relies on renewable energy look like? We show how the climate transition can be improved, accelerated, and made more economical.

Output & Impact

Forschungszentrum Jülich is a knowledge factory. Through our work, we push the boundaries of knowledge and establish the basis for new applications. Our expertise is in high demand and is put to use in a variety of ways.

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