A bio-based economy is not pie-in-the-sky, it is here today. From food, to fuel, to packaging, clothing and cosmetics, food, fuel and materials derived from biotech are beginning to have a positive effect on our economy and the environment. Biotech is enabling industry and academia to develop environmentally and economically sustainable solutions that are freeing society from its dependence on depleteable resources. But the bright future is still clouded by challenges and misinformation that could dampen government and societal support.

• Further demonstrate the economic and environmental benefits of biotechnology
• Increase understanding of the important link between industrial and agricultural biotechnology and increase awareness of how the two are working together to deliver environmentally sustainable solutions
• Generate awareness of the opportunities and hurdles to a vibrant bio-based economy to enlist industry, NGO and consumer support to overcoming challenges