Biocomposites innovation system. Implications of advanced biomaterials in the implementation, development and projection of a circular bioeconomy model

The depletion of non-renewable resources and the ongoing ecological crisis underscore the urgent need for a profound transformation of the production system. Reducing the extraction of non-renewable raw materials and addressing the challenges posed by industrial waste have become critical priorities. In this context, the bioeconomy (BE) emerges as a valuable alternative, offering a pathway to transition from a traditional extractive model to a sustainable paradigm of production and consumption.This study examines the potential of biocomposites (BC) as advanced biomaterials to foster the development of a biomass-based industry and to support the implementation, development, and projection of the BE within the bioplastic composites sector in the European Union (EU). To this end, the Delphi Method (DM) was employed, leveraging expert knowledge, experience, and assumptions through an iterative and anonymous exchange process based on the principles of collective intelligence. This approach aims to build consensus on future-oriented subjective assumptions.Transitioning to a sustainable future requires fundamental shifts in the current development paradigm, a process that depends on collective action among stakeholders through the establishment of robust innovation systems (IS). In this transformation, public administration (PA) plays a pivotal role, capable of catalysing change through the adoption of sustainable policies. The study also discusses the potential of design to contribute to the definition of future scenarios that can be used by policymakers and industry.