BioEconomy Cluster

The goal of the bioeconomy is to achieve global independence from fossil raw materials. The Saxony-Anhalt/Central Germany cluster region sees itself as a model region in this endeavor. The BioEconomy Leading-Edge Cluster, for example, specializes in processing biomass, such as the locally sourced beechwood, to produce materials, chemicals, innovative products, and energy carriers. Around 80 members from industry and research are working on cross-sectoral value chains to achieve this.

To turn ideas into reality, the BioEconomy Cluster connects research institutions with processing companies. The network covers the relevant sectors of wood and forestry, the chemical industry, the plastics and packaging industry, plant and mechanical engineering, and the energy sector. Since its founding in 2012, the cluster has initiated and implemented numerous projects, bringing innovative intermediate products and applications to market maturity. The Fraunhofer Center for Chemical-Biotechnological Processes with its demonstration plant is just one example among many.

The center of the cluster network, which geographically extends across the South Harz timber region, the chemical triangle in Saxony-Anhalt, and the Saxon metropolitan regions of Leipzig and Dresden, is located around the Leuna chemical site. Fully developed industrial parks with excellent infrastructure and state-of-the-art production and pilot plants form the basis for developing and evaluating innovative technical processes. Numerous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) also benefit from this, collaborating with research partners on technologies or intermediate products in joint projects.