Research - Biosociety

Welcome to Biosociety and the Knowledge-Based Bio-Economy

The life sciences and biotechnology in Europe aim to serve the interests of European society, to enhance citizens’ quality of life, and to boost the competitiveness of industry through the construction of a dynamic knowledge-based bio-economy (KBBE). This website is your gateway to the Biosociety and Bio-economy.

October 2006
Energy, Environment: GM bacteria fuel hopes for sustainable bio-diesel
According to the latest climate models, global warming is occurring faster than previously thought, making the EU’s bid to switch to renewable energy sources all the more pressing. German scientists have uncovered a novel way of using genetically modified bacteria to produce bio-diesel which could make bio-fuels a more feasible alternative in the future.

October 2006
R&D, Expenditure: Private research investment in EU set to accelerate
European companies expect to boost their R&D investment by some 5% per year over the next three years, according to a new survey by the Commission’s Joint Research Centre. The biotechnology, pharmaceutical and chemicals sectors account for most of that growth.

October 2006
Research, Policy: Technology platforms no wild goose chase
Migratory birds co-operate closely to reach better climes; the same applies to collaborative research, particularly technology platforms, according to Science and Research Commissioner Janez Potočnik.

Site last update: 03/10/06

KBBE would mean little without the active participation of civil society organisations (CSOs). The European Commission has launched a newsletter to inform CSOs of the latest developments in the KBBE and listen to their views and concerns. Find out more.

A report on a Brussels conference on the “knowledge-based bio-economy” has been released. Read news story. Read report. [ - 2.86 Mb]