What is bio-literacy?

An understanding of the emerging bio-economy by the general public and key stakeholders appears to be essential to political support and long-term success. Furthermore, a lack of trust and awareness of the bio-economy is likely to result in resistance to new systems and supportive policies. Such understanding can be called BIO-LITERACY. Last, but certainly not least, greater stakeholder and public engagement can help to ensure the sustainability of the bio-economy - from environmental, economic and social perspectives.

BIO refers to a range of terms, including biomass, bio-energy, biofuels etc. Put simply, biomass is all plant and animal matter. Harvesting and utilising biomass to generate energy (heat, electricity or fuels for transport) is bio-energy. Fuels for transport, such as bioethanol and biodiesel, are often called biofuels. The emerging bio-economy encompasses all of these activities (and more).

LITERACY means the ability to read, write, speak, and understand words. In this context, it is used to refer to the ability to understand the “language” of the bio-economy – the benefits, drawbacks, technologies, resources etc. Of course, there are levels of literacy, ranging from no understanding to experts. In this case, the focus is on literacy among the general public and key stakeholders.