Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are CBIN's vision and objectives?

A: CBIN’s vision is to develop or promote the development of knowledge, technology and policy to enable the optimal and sustainable use of our bioresources for energy and bioproducts, environmental protection, economic growth and societal benefit in support of national priorities and alignment with international directions.

The Network's objectives are to:

1. Make and promote strategic RD&D investments which advance the development and commercial application of bioenergy, biofuels and industrial bioproducts for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions reduction;
2. Contribute data, analysis and strategic thinking for the development of policies enabling a sustainable Canadian bioeconomy; and
3. Support the development of a world-class expertise to meet the technology needs of the Canadian bioeconomy.

Q: Where does the funding come from and how is it used?

A: CBIN funds applied RD&D projects in the areas of bioenergy, biofuels and industrial bioproducts. It fills the space between basic research and demonstration/ pre-commercialization.

CBIN currently receives funding from:

• The Bio-Based Energy Systems and Technologies (BEST) Program of Energy Research and Development (PERD) which promotes the development of bioenergy and biomass-derived transportation fuels. Traditionally, PERD funding has focused on biomass supply and biomass conversion and utilization.
• As of 2008, CBIN receives ecoENERGY Technology Initiative (ecoETI) funding. ecoETI funds next-generation energy technologies that will reduce GHG and criteria air contaminants (CAC) emissions from the production and use of energy.

While these federal funding programs have distinct mandates and deliverables, they share the same overall strategy and management structure.

A list of funded projects is available on the Key Documents page of this website.

All projects must have a Federal Government lead and partners (e.g. industry, academia, provincial or municipal governments, NGOs, etc.)

Q: Who oversees CBIN?

A: An interdepartmental Science and Technology (S&T) Portfolio Committee is responsible for identifying RD&D gaps and recommending strategic RD&D activities that will advance bioenergy, biofuels, and industrial bioproducts innovation in Canada. This committee includes representatives from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Environment Canada, Industry Canada, the National Research Council Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council.

Q: What is the purpose of the Interdepartmental Committee on the Bioeconomy (ICBE)?

A: The ICBE is intended to direct CBIN's S&T Portfolio Committee on an as needed basis. It is composed of Director Generals and other senior managers who represent relevant federal departments. This committee oversees the operation of CBIN from the perspective of broad Government of Canada objectives and policies, as well as in the context of activities and developments in bioenergy, biofuels and industrial biotechnology that are being spear-headed by international organizations. The committee offers advice and direction for strengthening the coordinated effort of the federal government to advance the bioeconomy.

Q: How does the network obtain external advice?

A: An External Advisory Panel (EAP) provides independent advice on strategy and project portfolio on an as needed basis. EAP members are drawn from provincial associations, industries and universities.

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