Preface

Realizing that our current economic system could lead to the collapse of civilization as we know it, the emphasis is now on an economy that is positive for people and the planet. The aim is to turn the tide and bring nature back to the center of our economy. The change from the linear economic system to circular models with bio-resources as its true engine is the pivot to build a resilient and sustainable future. Therefore, in this book, we explore the use of biomass as a source of a multitude of sustainable biological products. This book consists of 18 chapters written by renowned researchers from every part of the world. Each chapter provides an overview of basic information on the subject in question. We hope that the chapters in this work will benefit students, researchers, and professionals engaged in biomass-based technology and inspire research ideas and future directions.

> **Eduardo Jacob-Lopes, Leila Queiroz Zepka and Rosangela Rodrigues Dias** Food Science and Technology Department, Federal University of Santa Maria, UFSM, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil

**1**

**2. Conclusion**

**Chapter 1**

**1. Introduction**

Introductory Chapter: From

*Rosangela Rodrigues Dias, Leila Queiroz Zepka* 

*and Eduardo Jacob-Lopes*

sustainable development [5].

Biomass to Bio-Based Products

for change to build an economy that works for people and the planet [1, 2]. Leaders in all disciplines are tracing a course to meet the needs of an everincreasing population and stem the uncontrolled climate change that threatens to lead to the collapse of civilization as we know it [3]. That threat hangs like a sword over our heads. Therefore, every option is important, every choice is important, and every action matters. Moving toward the transition to a bio-based economy is part of this puzzle. Furthermore, for various reasons, the transition to a bio-economy can bring

the planetary boundaries back into safe operating space [4].

Fossil resources have served the global economy well, creating wealth and human well-being unprecedented in recent decades. However, the issue is that there is no future for an economy powered by the consumption of nonrenewable fossils. It is time

In this vision, with nature back at the heart of the economy, the prognosis is for equitable and resilient growth. In general, bio-based products are more efficient in the use of resources, are by definition renewable and less polluting, and are more likely to heed the appeal to circularity. Industries that produce renewable bio-based products from biomass are creating durable green jobs that pave the way for long-term

Furthermore, the bio-based products market is predicted to be a leading market. Demand for renewable and bio-based products will increase in response to market pressure driven by investors, media, regulators, and other stakeholders moving toward sustainability [6]. In particular, the support of governments, introducing regulations and promoting their adoption in different sectors, has been the backbone for incorporating demand. Reducing barriers to introducing biological products in the market and identifying them as one of the priority lines to focus investments and innovation is a sensible approach to meet the diverse demands of today's world [7].

The linear economy and overly reliant on fossil fuels is about to reach its physical limitations. The transition to a biocircular economy seems to have gone from an option to an urgent imperative. Thus, against this background, in this book, the chapters presented intend to explore the use of biomass for energy, chemicals and materials, food and feed, pharmaceuticals and personal care, and bioremediation and
