Contribution of Bioprocess Engineering to the Achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Dear Colleagues,

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, are a set of 17 interlinked goals that are intended to be a "shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and in the future". Global efforts should therefore be focused on achieving these goals. Bioprocess engineering is a transformative discipline that makes a significant contribution to achieving the SDGs. By harnessing biological systems, it provides innovative solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges. Some examples are given at the end of the text, but there are many more success stories.

Bioprocess engineering is a cornerstone of sustainable development, addressing critical goals such as clean energy, food security, water safety, responsible production and climate resilience. Its innovations are paving the way for a future that balances economic growth with environmental protection and social equity.

All authors are encouraged to clearly describe the impact of their work on achieving the SDGs, both in the abstract and in the main text. 

Examples:

For SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), bioprocess engineering facilitates the production of biofuels such as ethanol, biodiesel and biogas. These renewable energy sources reduce dependence on fossil fuels, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and provide sustainable energy alternatives for the growing global population.

In the fight against hunger, bioprocess engineering supports SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by improving agricultural productivity and food security. Bioprocess innovations are enabling the development of biofertilisers and biopesticides that increase crop resilience and reduce reliance on harmful chemical inputs. Fermentation technologies are also being used to produce protein-rich, nutrient-dense foods, helping to combat malnutrition and sustainably feed the growing population.

Bioprocesses also play a critical role in achieving SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) through microbial water treatment systems. These systems remove contaminants such as heavy metals and organic pollutants, making water safe for drinking and sanitation. Bioprocess innovations also address wastewater management by converting it into valuable byproducts, contributing to both water conservation and resource recovery.

With regards to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), bioprocess engineering drives circular economy practices. It enables the conversion of industrial and agricultural waste into bio-based products such as biodegradable plastics, biofuels and chemicals. This reduces pollution and promotes sustainable manufacturing practices.

Climate action, under SDG 13 (Climate Action), also directly benefits from bioprocess engineering. Technologies such as carbon capture and sequestration using engineered microbes reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, algae cultivation systems not only sequester CO₂ but can also be used to produce biofuels and other valuable materials, making these processes doubly beneficial for the environment.

Prof. Dr. Dirk Holtmann
Guest Editor

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• bioprocess engineering
• sustainability
• sustainable development goals (SDGs)