The workshop will explore the role of research infrastructure and living labs in advancing bioeconomy model regions.

Living labs and research infrastructure are integral to developing bioeconomy model regions, serving as innovation nuclei where new technologies and business model instruments can be demonstrated, tested, scaled, and implemented. These environments foster collaboration between researchers, industry, and communities to create novel solutions to societal, environmental, and economic challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and rural development. For greenhouse gas-intensive regions, such as those reliant on coal mining or intensive agriculture, living labs offer practical, hands-on solutions to transition towards sustainable practices and economic diversification. Bioeconomy model regions facilitate the emergence of innovative solutions by providing a supportive ecosystem for research and development. Through living labs, stakeholders can experiment with and refine technologies and practices in real-world settings, ensuring they are effective and scalable.

In a combination of expert talks and site visits, Matís and RISE will lead participants through examples of various bioeconomy initiatives, focusing on lessons learned over the last few decades. Topics include bioeconomy initiatives in Sweden, the transformation of the Icelandic fisheries and the importance of fossil-free energy.