The Circular Bio-based Joint Undertaking (CBE JU), a public-private partnership that promotes research, innovation and industrial development in the field of bioeconomy, has featured the ZEST research project in its new report CBE JU: A Competitive Bioeconomy for a Sustainable Future.

The publication reviews CBE JU’s trajectory since its launch in 2014 and highlights the key figures and initiatives that have helped position Europe at the forefront of the bioeconomy. Since then, this initiative — supported by the European Union and the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC), of which CTA is a member — has funded 220 projects with a total investment of €1.3 billion, benefitting more than 1,700 entities across 45 countries.

It is also estimated that for every euro invested by CBE JU, the programme attracts €3.23 in private investment, reflecting the sector’s strong commitment to a more sustainable, resilient and circular economy.

Download the full report here.

CTA, a key partner in bioeconomy projects

Circular bio-based industries transform renewable resources — such as agricultural and forest biomass or organic waste — into sustainable products that replace fossil-based alternatives. This model reduces external dependence, strengthens local supply chains, creates green jobs and enhances Europe’s competitiveness, while contributing to climate and sustainable development goals.

In addition to ZEST, CTA participates or has participated as a partner in international projects such as BIO4AFRICA, SYMBIO, BIOTRANSFORM and BBioNets, all focused on biomass valorisation, industrial sustainability and public-private collaboration in the bioeconomy.

Drawing on its extensive experience in knowledge transfer, R&D support and scientific communication, the CTA Foundation has established itself as a key player in driving a competitive and high-impact bioeconomy across Europe.