Croatia’s Bioeconomy Strategy Approved Amid Opposition Criticism

The Croatian Parliament (Sabor) passed the Bioeconomy Strategy for 2025‑2035, the country’s first comprehensive plan in this sector. The strategy aligns with the EU’s 2035 bio‑economy framework and targets €15 billion in turnover from biomass production and processing, aiming to boost sustainable production, create jobs and improve rural and coastal livelihoods.

Supporters highlight the EU’s recognition of Croatia as having the EU’s largest biomass potential and stress that the plan should generate employment, social inclusion and local development. Critics from opposition parties argue the document lacks ambition, especially on the social dimension of the green transition, and warn of insufficient measures on waste management, forest protection and the need for stronger impact assessments. They also note that the projected added value per employee (€21 000) lags far behind the EU average.

The debate underscores the tension between aiming for a competitive bio‑economy and ensuring that environmental and social safeguards are adequately addressed before implementation.