Bioprocessing and biocatalysis for a post COVID world

Current climate change concerns and our post COVID world continue to change the way we used to live, sometimes opening opportunities for sustainable societies by deploying better human creations. For instance, biotechnology approaches are mentioned as key option in several worldwide initiatives, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals, COP26 and more. Bioprocessing and biocatalysis are major parts of biotechnology for materials transformation. Biomass instead of petroleum, coal or controversial food feedstocks can produce cheaper, safer, faster and environmentally friendlier products and services. For instance, advanced biofuels, bioplastics, biooil, sugars, biofertilizers, proteins and foods to cite a few. In the current bioeconomy, the global biotechnology market grew 2.9% in 2022 and could be US$2.44 Trillion in 2028. The biotechnology market contributes 2.7% to the GDP in OECD countries. By 2030, the biotechnology market could be greater in non-OECD countries; more than 50% of total world agricultural output and 35% of chemicals and related output would depend on biotechnology. Over 40 countries have a national strategy related to bioeconomy and 13 have a dedicated bioeconomy strategy. Bioprocessing and biocatalysis are key players to build up a more sustainable future offering a better quality of life to people worldwide.