The board

Chairman’s message

The future of prosperity depends on breaking our reliance on fossil carbon. For too long, economic growth has come at the planet’s expense. Earth's systems—especially carbon and material cycles—are stretched to their limits. To keep raising global living standards, we must urgently shift to a sustainable, circular economy.

The bioeconomy is central to this transformation. By turning renewable biological resources into materials, chemicals, and products, we can cut emissions, reduce waste, and build regenerative systems. It’s a powerful solution—and a necessary one.

While clean energy gets the spotlight, we must also rethink how we make the chemicals and materials that modern life depends on. These sectors are major carbon users, yet often left out of climate strategies. Net zero demands a decisive move away from fossil-based inputs in manufacturing, packaging, and agriculture.

At BBIA, we champion this transition. Bio-based, biodegradable materials are not just viable—they’re essential. Over the past 18 months, we’ve expanded our influence, welcomed new members across the value chain, and deepened our role in policy, research, and strategic partnerships.

But systemic change needs more than ambition. It needs bold policy, targeted investment, smarter regulation, and real collaboration across science, industry, and government.

The UK has what it takes to lead—if we choose to.

Now is the moment. We invite businesses, researchers, investors, and policymakers to join BBIA. Help drive the bio-based economy forward. Let’s build a more sustainable future—together.

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Management Team

Dr Jen Vanderhoven

Dr Jen Vanderhoven

Chief Operating Officer

BBIA Board Members

Paul Mines

Paul Mines

Chair

Chief Executive Officer, Biome Technologies

Andy Sweetman

Andy Sweetman

Co-Vice-Chair

Marketing Manager Futamura UK

Kieran MacSweeney

Kieran MacSweeney

Treasurer

Managing Director - Sphere Consumer Products

Emily Nichols

Emily Nichols

Board Member

REA Organics

Daphne Vlastari

Daphne Vlastari

Board Member

Head of Communications and Government Relations, UK & Ireland BASF

Professor Aline Miller

Professor Aline Miller

Board Member

University of Manchester

Sarah Davidson

Sarah Davidson

Board Member

Croda

Richard Lock

Richard Lock

Board Member

Holiferm

Dr Richard Smith

Dr Richard Smith

Chief Operating Officer and Director, 2M Group Ltd