In this field of expertise, research is conducted into the (bio)chemical, microbiological and physical conversion and upgrading of renewable raw materials from agriculture and forestry as well as new bio-based materials and their material and conceptual use. With the aim of a sustainable circular economy, resource-efficient technologies including modern, highly specific conversion processes and production methods, digital image capture and processing methods, new recycling and upcycling processes to reduce residues, new biorefinery-specific separation, cleaning and analysis processes as well as material characterization methods on various length scales are to be developed. 

Future research priorities include biorefinery and the development of new recyclable and composite materials from renewable raw materials; the further development of biogenic materials based on cellulose and lignin; the new development and (biotechnological) production of bioplastics, biocomposites, textiles, pulp and paper products, wood recyclables and wood hybrid materials as well as mineral resources; the generation of platform chemicals and active ingredients from renewable raw materials using chemical or cell or enzyme-based biotechnological processes (green chemistry) and bioactive plant metabolites. In addition, aging, degradation, decomposition and mineralization processes of (bio)materials are being investigated. Other future BOKU focal points are energy technology with a focus on renewable energies and the holistic analysis of technological development processes including life cycle analyses and technology assessment as well as spatial and environmental planning dimensions of energy and resource transition