Conference: the knowledge-based bio-economy

In recognition of the growing importance of the emerging knowledge-based sector of the bio-economy, the European Commission is to hold a high-profile conference in Brussels (Belgium) on 15 and 16 September to chart a course towards a modern knowledge-based bio-economy.

Christian Patermann, Research DG, Director 'Biotechnology, Agriculture and Food research' will open the conference, followed by a speech on the political context by Janez Potocnik, EU Commissioner for Research.

The policy context of the bio-economy will be discussed, focusing on the following issues:

- the Lisbon Strategy and the knowledge based bio-economy;
- education, science and values: producers and consumers in the new knowledge economy;
- the total food chain;
- global challenges;
- the new orientations of Common Agricultural Policy.

Another focus will be life sciences and biotechnologies - the drivers of the bio-economy. Among the subjects to be debated are the following:
- plants for the future;
- industrial biotechnology;
- knowledge-based agriculture;
- micro-organisms: untapped genetic resources;
- food research and competitiveness in the bio-economy;
- advanced genomics and biotechnology for eco-efficient innovations;
- converging technologies and disciplines - new opportunities.

The second day will be devoted to 'Stakeholders' vision: theory, examples and expectations'.For further information, please consult the following web address: http://europa.eu.int/comm/research//conferences/2005/kbb/index_en.html

To download the conference leaflet, please visit:
ftp://ftp.cordis.lu/pub/docs/kbb_leaflet.pdf