On Tuesday, our colleagues Rita and Josephine attended NEXUS Bioeconomy 2025, organized by RootCamp in Hannover. The event brought together leading voices from science, business, and politics to discuss the opportunities and challenges of the bioeconomy. The agenda was filled with inspiring keynotes, panel discussions, and breakout sessions – and it delivered valuable insights across the board.
Why the Bioeconomy Matters
The bioeconomy is considered one of the central industries of the future in Germany and across Europe. It connects ecological sustainability with economic growth and focuses on the intelligent use of bio-based raw materials. In doing so, it addresses several pressing challenges at once: reducing dependency on fossil resources, conserving natural resources, and strengthening a resilient economy.
At NEXUS Bioeconomy, one message was clear: Germany needs a strong bioeconomy to remain internationally competitive while achieving its climate goals. Companies, start-ups, research institutions, and policymakers must collaborate closely to drive this transformation.
High-Profile Speakers and Thought-Provoking Panels
The event opened with a welcome by Dr. Philipp Rittershaus (RootCamp) and Nikola Steinbock (Landwirtschaftliche Rentenbank). Afterwards, Prof. Dr. Stefanie Heiden (Leibniz University Hannover) introduced the first panel under the guiding question: “Industria quo vadis?” – Where is industry heading in the context of sustainable transformation? Representatives from Volkswagen, KWS, the Agricultural Rentenbank, and the Employers’ Association of Lower Saxony shared their perspectives.
Political representatives also underlined the importance of the bioeconomy: Grant Hendrik Tonne, Minister of Economic Affairs of Lower Saxony, and Belit Onay, Mayor of Hannover, both emphasized the role of bio-based innovation for regional value creation, job opportunities, and long-term competitiveness.
Further sessions addressed the rising demand for bio-based resources, the optimization of resource efficiency in primary production, and case studies on the everyday applications of bioeconomy in business and society.
Building Bridges Between Politics, Business, and Science
One of the strongest aspects of the event was the opportunity for networking. During breaks, at the startup exhibition, and later over finger food, participants from different sectors exchanged ideas and explored potential collaborations. The takeaway: only through close cooperation between research, industry, and politics can sustainable business models be successfully implemented.
Start-ups played an especially important role in showcasing innovative solutions – from new bio-based materials to sustainable food concepts and technologies designed to conserve resources. These entrepreneurial impulses are essential to scale the bioeconomy into mainstream markets.
Key Insights from NEXUS Bioeconomy
The main messageswe take away from Hannover are:
The bioeconomy is not just a trend but a strategic future topic for Germany.
Strong political frameworks are essential to guide companies in the right direction.
The demand for sustainable products and bio-based materials will continue to rise in the coming years.
Cooperation between start-ups, established companies, and research institutions is driving innovation.
The path to a successful bioeconomy requires joint effort and shared commitment across sectors.
What It Means for the German Economy
For German industry, the bioeconomy offers enormous potential:
New markets for bio-based products and technologies
Competitive advantages through sustainable innovation
Resilience in the face of global crises and resource scarcity
Reputation and trust through responsible, sustainable action
Companies investing in sustainable materials and processes today are positioning themselves for long-term success. The NEXUS Bioeconomy made it clear: many organizations are already on this path, and momentum is growing.
Conclusion: Bioeconomy as a Driver of a Sustainable Future
The NEXUS Bioeconomy 2025 has impressively shown the energy and dynamism that define the bioeconomy today. It is both a key technology and a driver of the future – for the German economy, for our environment, and for generations to come.
We are leaving the event not only with new contacts but also with a strong sense of urgency: a lot is already being done, but much more remains to be achieved. Politics, business, and science must continue to work hand in hand to unlock the full potential of the bioeconomy.
The positive takeaway: the direction is clear, and the commitment is strong. NEXUS Bioeconomy 2025 has proven that the willingness and ideas are there to actively shape the sustainable transformation ahead.
