Strategic Roundtable Kicks Off Discussion on the Future of Bio-based Materials
The Centre of Polymer Systems (CPS) reaffirms its role as a key leader in research on sustainable and circular materials. On April 23, 2026, it organized a strategic roundtable on the topic of “Utilizing Waste Biomass for New Sustainable Materials and Products,” which launched a focused expert discussion between the research community and industry partners.
The meeting took place as part of the CirkArena project, whose ambition is to systematically develop research, innovation, and technology transfer in the field of the circular economy and materials derived from renewable biological sources (so-called bio-based materials). The project thus contributes not only to increasing the region’s competitiveness but also to fulfilling long-term sustainable development goals at both the national and European levels.
The meeting’s program was designed as a combination of a moderated expert discussion and an interactive design thinking workshop, which facilitated a structured exchange of knowledge, experience, and strategic expectations. Participants focused on identifying key technological and societal challenges, as well as new opportunities in the field of waste biomass valorization and the development of high-value-added bio-based materials.
Based on the expert discussion, three strategic research and application areas were defined that reflect current trends and market needs:
- Biotechnological approaches to the utilization of residual biomass,
- Development of sustainable next-generation bio-based textile fibers,
- Comprehensive support for industry in the transition to circular bio-based products and processes.
The working groups focused primarily on identifying key barriers that have so far hindered the faster adoption of innovations, and on defining accelerators that can significantly support technological development and the transfer of knowledge into practice. Across all areas, the fundamental role of long-term strategic education in sustainability and the circular economy emerged as essential for effective collaboration between research and industry.
The results of the strategic roundtable will serve as an important basis for the future direction of the CirkArena project, for strengthening the CPS’ partnerships with industrial and institutional actors, and for further developing its position as a respected center of expertise in the field of advanced polymer and bio-based materials.
