Trends and policy in bioeconomy literature: A bibliometric review

Abstract

The concept of a sustainable bioeconomy is gaining traction on the international political agenda with governments around the world adopting bioeconomy strategies. Considering the growing need for bioeconomy policymaking expertise and knowledge, this paper provides a high-level quantitative overview of bioeconomy literature which relates to policy. Based on a bibliometric analysis, the findings suggest that the bioeconomy as a policy and research concept is relatively new but growing, with European countries (specifically in North and North-West Europe) taking charge. Topics of bioenergy and forestry are most prevalent, reflecting policy areas that can be said to pre-exist bioeconomy strategies. As a supplement to the high-level quantitative analysis, a content review of the most cited-papers found critical engagement and scepticism of some of the sustainability claims found in promissory bioeconomy policy discourse. This paper provides an overview of trends that will be useful for stakeholders building their knowledge on the topic of bioeconomy, policy and society. The framing and goals of the bioeconomy have been constantly evolving in EU policy discourse. This review establishes a baseline for future research to map chronological trends in bioeconomy literature which relates to policy.