In the “Policy Check Bioeconomy” webinar, Bioeconomy Austria examined current EU and national framework conditions for the bioeconomy on 26 November 2025. The focus was on what these developments mean in concrete terms for activities in the Austrian federal provinces.
Kilian Silberschneider began by outlining the work of Bioeconomy Austria expected in the coming years (funding period 2025–2028).
Georg Rappold from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism (BMLUK) introduced the work of COLI and emphasized the importance of global cooperation for sustainable management along the wood value chain. The high-profile COLI Summit taking place in Vienna from 23–25 February is already fully booked for the on-site part. However, registration for the waiting list or online participation is still possible.
Christian Holzleitner from the Directorate-General for Climate Action from the European Comission underlined the importance of clear rules for certifying carbon sinks in different products. The Carbon Removal Certification Frameworks are intended to help create a market for CO₂ certificates. To this end, the European Commission plans to establish a Buyers XXX.
(Note: “Buyers XXX” was left as in the original text due to missing information.)
On the eve of the publication of the Bioeconomy Strategy, Michael Losch, from the Directorate-General Agriculture and Rural Development, explained the key points that are “intended” to be addressed. A clear declaration in favor of the cascading use of biogenic raw materials will not be included. The intensified use of forests—meaning the reduction of standing timber stock—is also not included but is likely to be discussed more intensively to ensure sufficient sustainably produced biogenic raw materials during the transition period.
Lorenz Strimitzer from the Austrian Energy Agency presented the biomass strategy prepared on behalf of the Biomass Association. The use of pellets for providing renewable heat is shown to be particularly beneficial from a macroeconomic perspective, as tax revenues from raw material procurement over the usage period generate more income for the state than the cost of subsidies for installing the respective heating systems.
Hans Grieshofer from the Association of the Austrian Paper Industry outlined the challenges facing the value chain under the current EUDR regulation and presented the latest results, which bring important relief for small forest owners and low-risk countries. These exemptions are essential, as national forest legislation already imposes very strict requirements. He concluded by giving further insights into …
Andreas Windsperger from the Institute for Industrial Ecology presented comprehensive recommendations for meeting sustainability reporting requirements using the wood industry as an example. Sustainability reporting can also present an opportunity for wood-based products, as their renewable raw material base offers clear advantages.