Started from the bottom, now we're here – a young researcher’s perspective on the Bioeconomy Youth Vision

Abstract

The future of the bioeconomy requires strong youth action and leadership as outlined in the Bioeconomy Youth Vision. A common vision is fundamental to define a path that guides various actors towards the goals set. With this comment we want to promote and support this vision by sharing our observation from a young researchers’ perspectives. We see the intersection of education, communication and research as the right place to take necessary actions for driving the transformation towards a more sustainable (bio)economy. We advocate for top-down support and bottom-up initiatives. Top-down, in the form of a policy frameworks that create enabling factors for the transition, supports communication and dissemination of bioeconomy topics and promotes youth participation. Bottom-up, such as joint university-led programs to educate young change makers.