Circular bioeconomy development via network establishment between Chalmers and Brazilian Biorenewables National Laboratory

Research Project, 2022

Better use of renewable biomass is a key step in the transition to a circular and sustainable bioeconomy. Here we apply for support to establish a strong collaborative network between researchers at Chalmers University of Technology and The Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials, who both have a broad competence in biotechnological conversion of biomass. Both parties perform research in enzymatic deconstruction of complex biomass and robust cell factories for fermentation of the resulting products into valuable chemicals and fuels. They can, therefore, easily communicate around research questions and implementation of results. However, the network partners act in different contexts and have a lot to learn from each other, both in terms of research and regional policies for outreach and commercialization of key results. The network will be established through bilateral visits, both physically in workshops and student exchanges, and online in regular meetings. The goal is to set up a strong continued collaboration, joint publications, and applications for larger research funding to adress more rapid fulfilment of the global sustainable development goals SDG7 (affordable and clean energy), SDG12 (responsible consumption and production), SDG13 (climate action), and SDG15 (life on land; ecosystems and biodiversity).