AFRI – FAS Sustainable Bioeconomy through Biobased Products (A1414)

Program Area Priority: This program area priority focuses on developing biomass systems, and producing biobased products or biomass generated power to enable the bioeconomy, and in a manner, which reduces adverse impacts to the environment. The sustainable bioeconomy encompasses the development of bio-based products that promote human health, economic prosperity, energy security, ecosystem resources, and mitigation of climate change. The development of bio-based products can complement existing agricultural production systems and industrialized processes by creating opportunities to improve overall system profitability and productivity. Development of biomass systems also can entail development of co-products (e.g., lignin, biochar, etc.) so that circular economies are supported. Projects should address one or more of the following (order does not indicate importance):

a. New and/or improved strategies to develop bio-based products that improve product functionality, increase potential revenues and/or reduce cost over incumbent products; this includes addressing supply chain challenges for the production systems for feedstock/germplasm improvement, product formulation or end-user market demand;

b. Strategies and approaches for scalable biomass systems that provide beneficial ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, improved water availability and quality, improved life cycle emissions, nutrient use reduction, or wildlife and pollinator habitat 62 enhancements; and

c. Strategies to alleviate technical, and economic barriers leading to adoption resulting in improved consumer attitudes toward the bioeconomy and strengthening the rural economy through development of new bioproducts and employment opportunities.