It is with great pleasure that I invite you to the 34th edition of the European Biomass Conference and Exhibition (EUBCE), taking place from 19 to 22 May 2026 in The Hague, The Netherlands. The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) continues to provide scientific coordination and strategic guidance, a role that has been instrumental in maintaining EUBCE as a global reference point for scientific excellence, innovation and collaboration in the field of biomass.
Replacing fossil fuels with renewable, low-carbon alternatives is essential to achieving climate neutrality, and biomass can play a crucial, multifaceted role in this transformation. Sustainable biomass provides multiple options for the decarbonization of key sectors, through energy, fuels and a diverse range of bio-based materials and chemicals. While traditionally seen as a renewable energy source, biomass is increasingly valued as a feedstock for high-value applications, along with fuels and energy.
Technology developers and the biomass industry have made significant steps in advancing innovation and integration across the value chain. Yet, industrial deployment remains a key challenge. Too many promising technologies remain at pilot scale, unable to achieve widespread market adoption. EUBCE 2026 will offer an important opportunity to examine these challenges, showcase successful industrial applications, and promote dialogue to overcome persistent barriers to commercial deployment.
Over the years, EUBCE has fostered rich discussions on sustainable biomass feedstocks, innovative conversion technologies, and the integration of bio-based solutions into energy and industrial systems. These discussions have consistently highlighted biomass’s potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen energy security, and drive new economic opportunities.
The EUBCE 2026 programme, coordinated by the JRC, reflects both the urgency and complexity of the energy and climate transitions. Covering the full biomass value chain, the programme is structured into horizontal themes addressing resources, sustainability, and system integration, alongside vertical themes focused on conversion technologies for bioenergy, biofuels, biochemicals, and other bio-based products. In 2026, the programme will further evolve with a sharper focus on sustainable biomass production, emerging conversion technologies and biomass integration in circular value chains, with detailed descriptions and refined scope to address the evolving landscape. These refinements reflect the evolving research landscape and the need for deeper policy and market relevance. To strengthen cross-sector engagement, the conference will feature interactive panels and thematic events designed to complement the technical sessions.
As we continue to explore the full potential of biomass, including its diverse pathways, product streams, and sectoral integration, we must also address the challenges ahead. These include not only technical and economic issues, but also broader sustainability considerations across environmental, social, and economic dimensions. To do so effectively, we must harness every available tool – from advanced digital technologies to artificial intelligence -to ensure that biomass solutions are developed and deployed.
A particular focus will be placed on industrial applications of innovative biomass technologies, addressing the need for accelerated deployment. Abstracts are encouraged that showcase applications and initiatives for large-scale production of sustainable fuels, biochemicals, and biomethane. They should present advances in industrial conversion processes, commercial demonstration, supply chain logistics, or policy and financial mechanisms, as well as challenges and market barriers from the industry standpoint.
Throughout the conference, we will continue to celebrate excellence. The Linneborn Prize will honour outstanding scientific contributions to biomass energy, while the Giuliano Grassi Prize, established in 2022, will recognise achievements in industrial deployment. We also continue to acknowledge young scientists through the Student Awards and highlight impactful contributions via the poster awards.
We remain committed to supporting the dissemination of high-quality scientific output. Authors will have the opportunity to publish in special issues of peer-reviewed journals, including Biomass & Bioenergy, Energies, Sustainability, and BioFPR – Biofuels, Bioproducts & Biorefining, with Open Access options. Our ambition is to support the publication of over 100 peer-reviewed papers, reinforcing EUBCE’s role as a premier platform for visibility and impact in the field.
I warmly invite you to submit your abstract in the subtopic that best reflects the novelty or practical relevance of your work. Whether your focus lies in fundamental science, applied research, industrial applications, policy development, or sustainability assessment, EUBCE offers a unique opportunity to share insights, engage with the global peers, and foster cross-disciplinary collaboration.
I look forward to welcoming you in person to The Hague in May 2026 for what promises to be an exceptional, insightful and future-shaping edition of the EUBCE.