Marshal Piotr Całbecki: The Bioeconomy Cannot Be Imposed from Above

Marshal Piotr Całbecki is among the key speakers at the World Bioeconomy Summit 2026 (20–21 October), which concludes today in Dublin, the capital of Ireland. Held as part of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the event brings together representatives of academia, public administration, business and international organisations. Discussions focus on the development of a sustainable bioeconomy and innovations based on renewable resources.

The Marshal of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Region participated in a panel discussion on creating the conditions for the development of a bioeconomy built on regional potential, co-organised by the European Regions Research and Innovation Network (ERRIN). As Chair of the Commission for Natural Resources (NAT) of the European Committee of the Regions and head of the regional government, he presented the perspective of regional authorities across Europe, along with the experience of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Region in this field.

In his address, he emphasised that the development of the bioeconomy depends not only on European strategies but also, and perhaps above all, on their effective implementation at regional level. Key factors include cooperation between political and business leaders, farmers and researchers, as well as access to funding and long-term support for new initiatives in this field.

“The bioeconomy will only succeed if it succeeds in our regions,” he stressed.

Discussing the bioeconomic potential of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Region – its strong agricultural and food-processing sectors, extensive forest resources and scientific research base – he pointed out that the key challenge is ensuring that local resources contribute to the development of new products and innovative solutions within the region itself.

He noted that while the bioeconomy can stimulate economic growth and innovation, without the right approach it may also deepen disparities between regions. The benefits of its development should also reach peripheral areas, and regions should have the opportunity to actively participate in shaping and implementing this area of European policy.

“The bioeconomy cannot be imposed from above. It succeeds when it is developed together with regions, rather than simply for them,” he emphasised.

Marshal Piotr Całbecki’s participation in the Dublin summit provided an opportunity to showcase the experience of the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Region at a major international forum and to highlight the role of regional governments in developing a modern, competitive and sustainable economy based on biological resources.

Regional Office in Brussels

21 October 2026