Fostering transitions towards sustainability? The politics of bioeconomy development in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil

Siegel, Karen M; Deciancio, M; Kefeli, D.; de Queiroz-Stein, G; Dietz, T.

Abstract

The concept of bioeconomy is increasingly gaining attention in South America as a potential strategy to foster sustainability transitions. As bioeconomy development is intertwined with often contested questions of natural resource governance, it is important that the promotion of bioeconomy takes place in an inclusive manner. In three case studies from Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil we examine who takes up the concept, what interests are reflected in this and the implications for socio-environmental concerns. This points to two interrelated aspects which demonstrate variations in inclusiveness: the constellation of actors who drive bioeconomy visions, and the scope of issues covered.