BioChem Europe appoints new Chair and Vice-Chair

BioChem Europe is pleased to announce the election of Franz Kraus (Novamont) as its new Chair and Adam Kanne (Perstorp) as Vice-Chair.

Their appointment comes just a few weeks before the publication of the Bioeconomy Strategy which will mark a pivotal moment for Biochem Europe, as the biomass-derived chemicals and materials sector plays a crucial role in the bioeconomy, supporting Europe’s competitiveness, sustainability, and strategic autonomy.

“To build a stronger and resilient bioeconomy, we need a clear policy and market framework that supports bio-based solutions,” said Franz Kraus, newly elected Chair of BioChem Europe. “That means tailored market pull measures, access to all types of biomass feedstock, and an agile, coherent legislation that closes the regulatory gaps, brings predictability, and encourages innovation.”

Echoing this vision, Adam Kanne, Vice-Chair, emphasised the importance of collaboration and investment:

“Europe has all the ingredients to lead globally in the bioeconomy sector. It is of outmost importance to retain existing business and attract new investments. To achieve this, we must enable innovation, develop new supply chains, and ensure access to low-carbon energy at competitive prices. Together, we can unlock the full potential of the bioeconomy.”

The members of BioChem Europe also extended its gratitude to Ylwa Alwarsdotter for her dedicated leadership and outstanding contributions over the past years, which have laid a solid foundation for the association’s next chapter.

With its new leadership team, BioChem Europe is ready to strengthen collaboration across the value chain and help shape a competitive, sustainable, and innovation-driven bio-based future for Europe.