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Blogi Bio-based Circular Economy: Chemistry and Value Chains
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<strong>Bio-based Circular Economy: Chemistry and Value Chains</strong>

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As we move towards a carbon-neutral society, bio-based materials and circular economy solutions are becoming increasingly important. However, this transition is complex and requires expertise across multiple disciplines—from biomass conversion to the development of entirely new value chains.

At ChemBio Finland 2026, the Bio-based Circular Economy: Chemistry and Value Chains seminar brings together researchers, students and industry experts to explore how science can support this transformation.

The seminar is organized by the University of Helsinki in collaboration with the Circular Materials Bioeconomy Network (CIMANET).

CIMANET is a multidisciplinary doctoral education pilot supported by the Ministry of Education and Culture. The network brings together 67 doctoral researchers from nine Finnish universities, combining expertise from forest-based value chains to advanced bio-based materials and sustainability assessment. The goal is clear: to accelerate the transition towards the sustainable use of natural resources through cutting-edge research and collaboration.

Student Challenge: Visionary Ideas for Sustainability

A key highlight of the seminar is the student challenge, where doctoral researchers present their perspectives on some of the most pressing questions in the field:

  • How can bio-based and circular materials help solve today’s sustainability challenges?
  • How can we adopt bio-based materials while ensuring their sustainability?

Expert talks in two parallel sessions


Besides the student challenge, we will hear talks from experts in the field. In the morning session of Chemistry of bio-based materials, Professor Kirsi Mikkonen from the University of Helsinki tells how to combine lignocellulosic biomass and fungi in the context of food science. After lunch, postdoctoral researchers Alexandar Todorov and Trung-Anh Le will cover topics from ionic liquids to spectroscopy and the role of chemistry research in the biomass valorization. Session ends with Jukka Niskanen from Aalto University who takes us into the world of plastics, bio-based polymers, and chemical recycling.

Bio-based material value chains and lifecycles session addresses the sustainability perspectives of bio-based materials. Marileena Mäkelä from University of Jyväskylä gives an opening presentation about Sustainable Business Futures. After lunch, our CIMANET students lead a panel of expert guests from LUT university, Helsinki innovation services, and Ministry of economic affairs and employment to share their take on the challenge question in a panel discussion. Panel discussion will be followed by insightful talks about commercializing Bio-Based Innovations by Tero Tervahartiala from Metsä Group, followed by visions of consumers and appropriation of innovations, given by Eliisa Kylkilahti from University of Helsinki.

The seminar day will end with a poster session, where our audience is welcome to have a refreshment and good scientific discussions while diving into the world of circular bioeconomy with guidance from CIMANET doctoral researchers.

Whether you are a researcher, a student, or anyone interested in sustainable development, this seminar offers interesting perspectives and an opportunity to learn about the future of the bioeconomy in Finland. The event will be held in English. Around 70 seats will be available in both sessions.

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