The transition towards a sustainable bioeconomy is gaining momentum across Asia and the Pacific as countries seek innovative solutions to address climate change and environmental degradation while creating new opportunities for sustainable economic development.

By harnessing biological resources, technological innovation and circular approaches, the bioeconomy offers significant potential to support more resilient and resource-efficient economies.

This regional commitment was reinforced at the eighty-second session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in April 2026, with the adoption of resolution 82/2, “Supporting the transition towards a sustainable bioeconomy in countries in Asia and the Pacific.” The resolution underscores the importance of science, technology, innovation and regional cooperation in advancing a sustainable bioeconomy.

In line with this regional priority, the Asian and Pacific Centre for Transfer of Technology (APCTT) continues to promote technology transfer, knowledge exchange and capacity-building in this area. APCTT will convene an international conference on “Technology and Innovation for Climate Resilient Agriculture and Bioeconomy” in Changsha, China, in December 2026, providing a platform to exchange experiences and explore technological solutions for sustainable agricultural and industrial transformation.

Against this backdrop, the present issue of the Asia-Pacific Tech Monitor brings together four articles exploring different dimensions of the bioeconomy transition. The first examines innovation ecosystems for bio-based materials and circular business models in Bangladesh.

The second assesses the potential of oil palm residues for bioenergy, carbon capture and sustainable aviation fuels in Southeast Asia. The third explores emerging microalgal technologies for biological carbon capture and industrial transformation. The final article examines intellectual property, genetic resource governance and commercialisation readiness, drawing on Australia’s experience.

Together, these contributions highlight the importance of connecting technological innovation with supportive policies, effective technology transfer and regional cooperation. We believe this issue will provide valuable insights for all stakeholders and contribute to ongoing efforts to advance a sustainable and inclusive bioeconomy across Asia and the Pacific.

Preeti Soni Head, APCTT