TransBIB introduces: Euroregion Styria
European bioeconomy region:
Styria / Austria
In recent years, Styria has developed into one of Europe's leading regions in the field of bioeconomy. This shift towards a sustainable economy is the result of targeted political decisions, intensive cooperation between science and industry and strategic investment in pioneering technologies. The Styrian volcanic region in particular has taken on a pioneering role by being recognised as the first model region for the bioeconomy and circular economy in Austria.
The beginning of a sustainable transformation
The foundations for the Styrian bioeconomy were laid back in the early 2000s. At that time, the first initiatives began to sustainably organise the industrial use of renewable raw materials in the timber and agricultural industries. The establishment of clusters, such as the Styrian Wood Cluster, and close co-operation with leading research institutions such as Graz University of Technology and Joanneum Research promoted the development of innovative technologies and production processes.
A turning point came in 2019, when the Styrian state government officially anchored the bioeconomy in the "Styria 2030 State Development Strategy". This decision was an important step towards further advancing the use of bio-based raw materials and the creation of sustainable value chains. In 2021, the Styrian volcanic region was recognised as a model region for the bioeconomy, as a result of which funding of one million euros was made available by the Ministry of Climate Protection.
Research and companies as driving forces
A decisive success factor for the development of the bioeconomy in Styria is the close interlinking of research institutions, companies and networks. Scientific institutions such as Graz University of Technology and Joanneum Research as well as the Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB) play a central role in the development of key technologies in the fields of biotechnology and sustainable materials.
The wood sector in particular plays a key role here. Projects such as WoodC.A.R. and CARpenTiER have produced innovative bio-based materials for the automotive and construction industries. These developments are helping to drive forward the cascade utilisation of wood and the use of agricultural by-products to produce sustainable building materials, alternative proteins and biofuels.
Economic importance and regional development
The bioeconomy has developed into an important economic sector in Styria. In 2023, around 62,000 people were employed in this sector and annual turnover totalled 3.19 billion euros. Styria contributes 17.6% to Austria's agricultural GDP and is known for its strong production of apples, pumpkin products, wine and milk. These products are increasingly being integrated into sustainable value chains in order to minimise waste and open up new markets.
The Styrian Business Promotion Agency (SFG) supports companies in successfully shaping the transition to bio-based production processes. Programmes such as the "Styrian Food Hub" promote the integration of small and medium-sized enterprises into the bioeconomy and strengthen the regional economy.
International perspectives and future prospects
Another important milestone in the Styrian bioeconomy was the founding of the "Bioeconomy Austria" network in 2023. The network brings together stakeholders from various sectors, strengthens cooperation and promotes innovation. The region was also presented as an innovative pioneer in the use of bio-based materials at the International Wood Fair in Klagenfurt in 2024.
Styria continues to focus on the promotion of sustainable technologies and the expansion of bio-based industries. With strong cooperation between politics, business and science, the region is ensuring that the bioeconomy remains a key driver of growth in the future.
Timeline of the most important milestones:
2019: Launch of the bioeconomy strategy by the provincial government
2021: Styrian Volcano Region becomes the first model region for bioeconomy
2022: Publication of the Bioeconomy Action Plan
2023: Foundation of the Bioeconomy Austria network
2024: International presentation of bioeconomy innovations in Klagenfurt
Styria proves that a sustainable economy of the future must be based on innovation, cooperation and political support. As a bioeconomy region, it is a living example of how regions can shape a sustainable future through targeted strategies and cooperation between research, companies and politics.
All facts about the bioeconomy region of Styria in the attached PDF.