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New Zealand hosts global Bioeconomy Innovations conference

8 October 2025

Forestry Resources Drive Sustainable Breakthroughs in the Bioeconomy

New Zealand is set to take centre stage in the global move towards a sustainable bioeconomy, leveraging its forest resources to spearhead innovation and international collaboration. The upcoming Bioeconomy Innovations Conference, organised by Innovatek Limited, will connect science leaders, venture capitalists, and entrepreneurs from around the world—offering both in-person and virtual access to a truly international audience.

With forest industry giants like Stora Enso and VTT investing in the development of bio-based technologies, the opportunities for replacing fossil-fuel-derived products with sustainable wood-fibre alternatives have never been greater. The Bioeconomy Science Institute, alongside dynamic startups in New Zealand and Europe, is driving research and commercialisation of these cutting-edge processes.

“Forestry resources are key to unlocking new high-value chemical processes and products, extending far beyond traditional uses of wood energy,” said John Stulen, Director at Innovatek. “Our industry is already making strides in turning previously underutilised forest residues into valuable products. The next step is to add value through advanced bioeconomy technologies.”

The Bioeconomy Innovations Conference, scheduled for late October, aims to accelerate commercialisation and foster international partnerships. Gordon Thomson, conference organiser at Innovatek Limited, anticipates strong engagement from global innovators and stakeholders eager to explore New Zealand’s leadership in this space.

International participants are encouraged to register their interest, by contacting Gordon Thomson at Gordon.thomson@innovatek.co.nz or connecting via LinkedIn for further details.

Click here for more information about the Bioeconomy Innovations Conference and opportunities to participate, or reach out directly to the organiser.

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