Future Developments in the EU Bio-Based Economy

This chapter reviews trends and developments in the EU bio-based economy. Three main trends are discussed: new developments in gene editing, related EU policies and the implications for the bioeconomy and the bio-based economy in particular; food products derived from cell cultures and new protein sources; and urban farming. The trends in food production indicate a move towards urban agriculture. Rural areas will be challenged to develop alternatives to food production. The circular bioeconomy can be of support and provide an opportunity for refreshing the debate on EU agriculture and rural development