Biofuels (made from rapeseed, corn, beetroot or sorghum): this use is part of the energy transition process, with biofuels seen as a solution for cutting greenhouse gas emissions. Plant breeding plays a key role here, optimizing the yield of energy crops and increasing the resistance of plants to changing climate conditions.
Green chemistry: Oil-rich varieties, such as sunflower or soybean, are increasingly used to produce bioplastics, biodegradable lubricants and chemicals from renewable raw materials. By selecting specific varieties, it is possible to improve the quality of extracted oils by targeting specific compositions (fatty acids, omega content, etc.) to meet the requirements of the chemical and biotechnology industries.
Cosmetics and health: Certain plants are selected for their pharmaceutical or cosmetic properties, particularly varieties rich in antioxidants, vitamins, or essential fatty acids. For example, flax and camelina are used to produce oils rich in omega-3s, which are highly valued in moisturizers, hair oils, and dietary supplements.
Natural fibres: Crops like hemp and flax are valued for their strong, eco-friendly fibres. These fibres are used in the manufacture of sustainable textiles, building materials, and in the automotive industry to replace traditional plastic-based composite materials.