ABSTRACT
This chapter investigates the interdependencies between policies, resources, technologies, and regional geographies that shape how the bio-economy is being articulated in particular places. It explores the various discursive frames in which bio-economy is being considered, with emphasis on the role of spatial identities in the varied and variegated visions of what a bio-economy is, and what a bio-based might look like. What are the implications on people and places of choosing among these options? How might we reconcile the increasing global need for food and fibre with our increasing tendency to utilize biomass for energy production? Is energy production the best use of biomass resources? The chapter provides a geographical perspective to these questions, and identifies major trends and issues that geographers are best equipped to engage. It concludes with thoughts on where bioenergy and biofuels are situated within the broad constellation of resources and technologies that might contribute to a sustainable energy.
