How can research create the greatest benefit for society? That was one of the questions addressed when BSRC’s International Scientific Reference Group reviewed the centre’s development and future opportunities.
Despite their different backgrounds, the experts agreed on one thing: BSRC’s greatest strength is its ability to bring together academia, industry and the public sector around shared challenges. This has created an environment that stands out even in an international context.
Teiksma Buseva
“What strikes me is that BSRC does not only conduct research on biogas. Here, biogas is treated as a system solution connecting waste management, agriculture, energy, nutrient recycling, transport and regional development,” said Lorie Hamelin from Toulouse Biotechnology Institute.
According to Lorie Hamelin, many research environments focus on individual parts of the biogas value chain, while BSRC takes a broader perspective. This makes it possible to highlight the value of biogas from multiple angles simultaneously – from climate benefits and energy supply to resource efficiency and circularity.
A platform connecting research and practice
Since its establishment, BSRC has built extensive collaboration between universities, companies, public authorities and other societal actors. For Frank Scholwin from the Institute for Biogas, Waste Management & Energy, this collaborative approach is one of the centre’s greatest achievements.
“BSRC has become a platform of high value for industry, policymakers and researchers. It addresses not only technical questions but also issues related to energy systems, societal development and policy,” he said.
Teiksma Buseva
He also highlighted the centre’s contribution to increasing the visibility of biogas and providing decision-makers with research-based knowledge.
“BSRC has become a recognised source of expertise when questions about the development and future role of biogas are being discussed,” said Frank Scholwin.
Research that makes a difference
Over the past 15 years, BSRC has generated new knowledge in areas such as anaerobic digestion processes, biofertilizers, sustainability assessments, market development and policy. However, the reference group believes that the next step is not only to create new knowledge, but also to make it more accessible and useful.
“BSRC’s strongest contribution is making the societal value of biogas visible. Looking ahead, there is an opportunity to translate even more research into decision-support tools, practical solutions and guidance that companies and policymakers can use,” said Lorie Hamelin.
The experts also see opportunities to strengthen the link between research and implementation by making the knowledge generated within the centre more accessible and easier to apply.
The next step: greater international impact
Sandra Esteves from the University of South Wales believes that BSRC has developed a model that attracts interest far beyond Sweden.
Teiksma Buseva
“You have built a unique research environment with strong infrastructure, broad expertise and close collaboration between researchers and industry. There is a real opportunity to take on an even stronger international role in the years ahead,” she said.
She also emphasised the importance of continuing to develop international partnerships while becoming better at measuring and demonstrating the societal impact created through research.
Several discussions focused on the role of biogas in future energy systems. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, biogas can contribute to energy security, resilience and greater self-sufficiency.
Looking ahead, the message from the reference group was clear: continue building on the collaboration that has made BSRC successful, strengthen its international presence and translate even more research into tangible benefits for society.
