With its newly published bioeconomy action plan the European Commission has the ambition to develop a more innovative and low-emissions economy, reconciling demands for sustainable agriculture and fisheries, food security, and the sustainable use of renewable biological resources for industrial purposes, while ensuring biodiversity and environmental protection.
Against this backdrop, EFFAT is working on a project “The bioeconomy and a future bio-based food industry and agriculture sector: how can workers’ organisations shape the change?” to reflect on the challenges and the opportunities of bioeconomy for our sectors.
On 9-10 October a first workshop held in Copenhagen looked at these questions and investigated the issues of food security, use of resources and climate, environment and human health. In what way the bioeconomy and new value chains will impact on the creation of jobs and working conditions? Which actions are needed for developing a socially inclusive and sustainable bioeconomy? What can trade unions do?
The second workshop will take place in Italy next year (early March) and will focus more on the themes of education, training and skills.
