Brussels, 30 Jun 2005

In recognition of the growing importance of the emerging knowledge-based sector of the bio-economy, the European Commission is to hold a high-profile conference in Brussels (Belgium) on 15 and 16 September to chart a course towards a modern knowledge-based bio-economy.

Christian Patermann, Research DG, Director 'Biotechnology, Agriculture and Food research' will open the conference, followed by a speech on the political context by Janez Potocnik, EU Commissioner for Research.

The policy context of the bio-economy will be discussed, focusing on the following issues:

- the Lisbon Strategy and the knowledge based bio-economy;
- education, science and values: producers and consumers in the new knowledge economy;
- the precautionary principle implications;
- the total food chain;
- the existing regulatory framework: what is missing?
- global challenges.

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Another focus will be life sciences and biotechnologies - the drivers of the bio-economy. Among the subjects to be debated are the following:
- plants for the future;
- industrial biotechnology;
- knowledge-based agriculture;
- micro-organisms: untapped genetic resources;
- food research and competitiveness in the bio-economy;
- advanced genomics and biotechnology for eco-efficient innovations;
- converging technologies and disciplines - new opportunities.

The second day will be devoted to 'Stakeholders' vision: theory, examples and expectations'.

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For further information, please consult the following web address: erences/2005/kbb/index_en.html

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