This working group will lead on BB-REG-NET’s aspiration to transform the UK’s bio-based materials sector. It will coordinate the network’s strategic delivery, manage stakeholder engagement, and develop plans to ensure the network’s lasting impact. Through partnerships and knowledge exchange, it will enable BB-REG-NET to build the foundations for a sustainable bio-based economy.

If you are would like to know more about BB-REG-NET and how to be involved please email jen.vanderhoven[at]bbia.org.uk

To enable support and investment in a circular bioeconomy requires a robust evidence base. This working group will examine UK feedstock availability and sustainability, composting infrastructure challenges, and end-of-life considerations for bio-based materials.

Outputs include development of a Biomass Utilisation Framework, reviews of material transparency and certification standards, and assessment of biorefinery models and their resource effectiveness. The group will also deliver literature reviews on BB-Materials’ relationship with littering and microplastics, alongside work to establish consistent UK definitions of plastic.

If you are interested in contributing to this working group please email G.Shuttleworth[at]nnfcc.co.uk

Environmental impact assessment is a key pillar in this programme, with a focus on developing fair and comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies. This group is addressing three fundamental challenges: the inherent bias in current impact categories, gaps in environmental data particularly around composting, and inconsistencies in LCA approaches.

Its outputs include: a review of LCA standards in Q1, methodology guidelines for fair comparison in Q2, guidance on composting modelling in Q3, and a review of biodegradability testing frameworks in Q4. This portfolio aims to establish more equitable and accurate ways of assessing BB-materials’ environmental impact.

If you are interested in contributing to this working group please email s.r.walker[at]sheffield.ac.uk

The Economic Impact group is building an evidence base to support policy decisions around biochemicals, industrial composting, and biobased packaging. It’s work programme begins with analysis of UK university start-ups that have moved abroad (December 2024), followed by assessment of NHS procurement potential (January 2025).

The group will deliver evaluations of industrial composting subsidies and comparative analysis of biomass use for biochemicals versus bioenergy. Additional studies examine the impact of policy mechanisms including the plastics packaging tax and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.

If you are interested in contributing to this working group please email jh[at]perspectiveeconomics.com

Understanding market dynamics and consumer perspectives is essential for the adoption of BB-materials. This working group is investigating current gaps in standardised certification and labelling systems, and addressing limited consumer understanding and misconceptions about BB-materials.

Through analysis of stakeholder language use and consumer focus groups, the team will develop evidence-based guidance on communication practices and create practical training resources for industry practitioners. Their work aims to bridge the gap between technical innovation and market implementation.

If you are interested in contributing to this working group please email j.gavins[at]sheffield.ac.uk

The Policy and Regulatory Engagement group facilitates collaboration between BB-REG-NET and key policymakers and regulators. The work begins with comprehensive stakeholder mapping to establish effective knowledge-sharing mechanisms. The group is conducting two major research initiatives: a survey of policy and regulatory stakeholders with follow-up roundtable discussions, and a consumer survey via Yonder to assess public attitudes.

These findings will inform an expert white paper containing policy recommendations for government departments including DBT, Defra and local government. The group’s work supports evidence-based policy development for the BB-materials sector.

If you are interested in contributing to this working group then please email william[at]higginsonstrategy.com.