Lena Ek on the bioeconomy inquiry: "We need to take more responsibility for the raw materials we already have.

- "We are wasting an incredible amount of resources and need to start thinking in a completely different way," says Lena Ek, the government's special investigator for the biotechnology inquiry.

In her final report, submitted to Minister for Rural Affairs Peter Kullgren last Friday, she emphasizes how crucial efficient resource management is for a stronger and more sustainable Swedish bioeconomy.

Last Friday, Lena Ek handed over her final report on the inquiry into a strong and sustainable bioeconomy in Sweden to the Minister for Rural Affairs, Peter Kullgren.

- "The main conclusion is that we need to become much more efficient in how we manage our valuable natural resources, such as using residual streams and surplus materials, as well as increasing cooperation, synergies and technological development," says Lena Ek.

Calls for resource efficiency and responsibility

The bioeconomy is based entirely on Swedish raw materials from soil, forests and water, and developing the bioeconomy can provide multiple and obvious benefits - the report mentions security, competitiveness and livelihood. But what are the risks to nature and our ecosystem services?

The report contains 17 proposed measures, including increased domestic production of renewable fuels, a national action plan to increase the use of wood, and investments in interdisciplinary research and innovation. However, there are no specific targets or directives for the protection of biodiversity.

Misconception that bioeconomy requires more logging

However, Lena Ek believes that with a new and more responsible approach to our bio-resource, biodiversity will still be protected.

- 'There is a big misconception that a stronger bioeconomy must mean more logging. I think it's more about being more responsible with the raw material we already have," she says.

The report also highlights the importance of ensuring sustainable and responsible forestry. The existing environmental certification programs are already quite tough, says Lena Ek, but more need to be certified for sustainable forestry.

Lena Ek will present her conclusions and recommendations in Parliament on Tuesday 5 December.