# 1. Introduction to the biobased economy

Closing the loops is a central principle in the biobased economy. The illustration shows that plants grow by photosynthesis, needing energy from the sun and carbon dioxide from the air. The produced biomass is used as food (for humans) and feed (for animals). All what is left can be converted into materials, chemicals, fuels or energy. Examples of "left over" streams are unedible parts of plants, manure, kitchen or supermarket waste and side streams of agricultural processes or products. Thus waste production does not exist and the loop is closed.

In this introduction of the biobased economy three elements are highlighted:

- Biomass production

- Conversion processes and products

- Transition to a biobased society

As you can see the next chapters have the same titles. But before we provide you with information about these specific subjects, it is necessary to provide a good understanding of the backgrounds of a biobased economy. This introduction is given in this chapter.

The biobased economy encompasses the agriculture, forestry, fisheries, food and biotechnology sectors, as well as a wide range of industrial sectors, ranging from the production of energy and chemicals to building and transport. This implicates that for realizing a biobased economy we need generalists and specialists from a great diversity of studies. This introduction is therefore important for young people with know-how of:

- Biomass production: biotechnology, plant breeding and plant cultivation & production, animal husbandry etc.

- Conversion processes and products: environmental science & technology, chemistry, product & industrial design, mechanical and chemical engineering etc.

- Transition to a biobased society: logistics, marketing, business administration, etc.

In other words: the development of a biobased economy needs you!

Watch the two embedded videos for gaining a better understanding of what a biobased economy is.

First introduction video https://www.youtube.com/embed/XX6911pS0Kg

Second introduction video https://www.youtube.com/embed/2xvXkOMRTs4

In addition we are working on a circular economy. Here, the value of products and materials is maintained for as long as possible. Waste and resource use are minimised, and when a product reaches the end of its life, it is used again to create further value. The term is used to explain what is necessary to create a sustainable society. Sustainability is defined as the kind of development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

Watch the embedded video for gaining a better understanding what a circular economy is.

Circulair Economy... it's the way forward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lK00v_tzkCI