Heli Kangas and Kaisa Vehmas, from VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, partner of the BIOSWITCH project

What’s your role within the BIOSWITCH project?

We are involved in the BIOSWITCH project in three different ways. First, we are developing and validating an LCA tool.  Secondly, we’re researching for a better understanding of the consumer perspectives and future expectations related to bio-based products and brands. Lastly, we are working towards increasing consumer awareness and acceptance of bio-based products and brands.

How does your entity contribute to the bioeconomy? 

VTT actively participates in national and international research projects related to bioeconomy, and is a member of all relevant platforms and ecosystems. We can say that bioeconomy has a central role in VTT’s activities and is part of our current research strategy.

What do you expect to achieve within the framework of the BIOSWITCH project?

As a result of our work, we aim to develop an LCA tool that will benefit brand owners and other industries in the field of bioeconomy and we hope that it also helps us to widen our network among the stakeholders in the field of bioeconomy.

Where do you think the main change should be produced to boost bio-based alternatives in replacement for fossil-based ones?

As one of the challenges faced in the bio-based transition relates to consumer awareness and acceptance, we need to put much effort into raising awareness. This will also be possible by encouraging stakeholders and providing them sufficient data to make decision towards bio-based products and production. In addition, we should not forget the important role of policy and how better clarity in regulation could help to boost bio-based alternatives.