ABSTRACT
Among the main tasks of strategic economic intelligence is the collection and dissemination of information about the state-of-the-art in technologies, products, and business processes. For instance, which technologies are important to produce better quality and healthy food using biomaterials, bio-diagnostics, and intelligent packaging? Which steps are important to turn to advanced renewable energy sources – anticipating rising oil prices – including photovoltaic, hydrogen and fuel cells, wind turbines, biomass and biogas? Which technologies offer clean, cost-effective, and low-capital intensive production in the steel and construction materials industries? Which steps are necessary to shift textiles towards synthetic fibres and wearable electronics? Which technologies can strengthen intelligent manufacturing, reduce time-to-market, and help globalise supply chains?
