Industrial biotechnology approaches for improved sustainability and output of industrial bio-based processes
- The scope covers a wide array of biotechnology techniques, including targeted and specific approaches for DNA modification, including synthetic engineering at gene or genome level, in line with the binding regulatory requirements, including related necessary technical aspects in other fields, such as synthetic biology, cell sorting, automation, robotics, IT data/digital/AI innovations, or the ‘biofoundry’ concept[[ http://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/10/biofoundries-the-new-factories-for-genetic-products/.]], [[ http://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/sites/bd16d851-en/index.html?itemId=/content/component/bd16d851-en.]]. Approaches based on improved enzymatic solutions should carefully consider a parallel topic[[ HORIZON-CL6-2023-CIRCBIO-01-5: Broadening the spectrum of robust enzymes and microbial hosts in industrial biotechnology.]], to avoid overlaps, and create synergies.
- Environmental improvements, especially reduced pollution/toxicity and lowered impacts should be verified and demonstrated by established methodology of life cycle assessment, and the monitoring approaches throughout the project need to be clearly established.
- Production of biofuels and bioenergy is excluded from scope, to avoid overlaps with Horizon Europe Cluster 5. Health applications need to be carefully considered to avoid possible overlaps with activities supported under Horizon Europe Cluster 1.
- Clear communication and dissemination activities are an essential element, including awareness raising, engagement of societal actors (NGOs, consumer organisations, professional organisations). Proposals should include a dedicated task, appropriate resources and a plan on how they will collaborate with other projects funded under this topic and other relevant topics.
- International cooperation options may be considered, for win-win cooperation, and pursued if contributing to the European industrial competitiveness.
- In this topic the integration of the gender dimension (sex and gender analysis) in research and innovation content is not a mandatory requirement.