GSS EU Science Funding Gateway

Proposals should take into account the need to promote social engagement, supporting the permanent learning and re-training, in the area of bio-based economy. It is necessary to take into account local specificities, such as the sustainable biological resources available (both traditional materials such as wood, cork or straw), but also innovations such as sustainable bio-textiles, bio-composites, 3-D printed biomaterials, recycled agro-food residues etc.

Proposals should: a. Analyse and develop guidelines on the regional bioeconomy-related skills/(re)-training/adult learning programmes to allow replication across Europe, taking into account the diversity of regional/local approaches, including the existing support measures (e.g. bioeconomy strategies, sectorial public and industry programmes and initiatives). b. Assess and integrate the contribution from the humanities/art/design/culture into bioeconomy/bio-based economy sectors (e.g. role of innovation and sustainability for the new bio-based materials, new functionalities, safety, user-friendliness, understanding); c. Ensure efficient exchange of best practice and engagement of all actors (e.g. regional and local authorities, SMEs, civil society organisations including NGOs, University alliances and professionals’ associations, knowledge providers, artists, designers and architects) via robust and transparent communication and awareness-rising campaigns; d. Analyse and develop recommendations on social and economic barriers and potentialities (e.g. job creation capacity and its quality) to enable the transition towards socially and environmentally responsible behaviour within all ranges (e.g. regulatory measures, corporate responsibility initiatives, education), ensuring inclusiveness of all actors (NGOs, civil society, including women, ethnic and religious minorities, migrants and refugees, the LGBTIQ community, disabled persons, youth and the elderly, etc).