The BOKU Future Conference 2026 “NO WASTE: Wie Bioengineering Kreisläufe schließt” is one of the key public events hosted by BOKU University in Vienna. The German speaking event is designed to be accessible to a wide audience and presents crucial topics concerning the future of our planet in a clear and engaging way. It brings together researchers, innovators, policymakers, industry leaders and the general public to explore solutions for a more sustainable future.
The conference focuses on pressing global challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and sustainable production systems. It creates a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas across disciplines, ranging from biotechnology and environmental sciences to circular economy and bio-based innovations. Through keynote talks, panel discussions, and interactive formats, the event fosters collaboration and forward-thinking approaches to shaping a resilient and sustainable bioeconomy.
Meet the Cluster of Excellence Circular Bioengineering
This year, the Cluster of Excellence Circular Bioengineering will be present at the conference with its own booth. We warmly invite all participants, including students, researchers, professionals, as well as anyone else who is interested, to visit us, learn more about our work, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
Our cluster is dedicated to advancing innovative solutions in circular bioengineering, aiming to transform biological resources into sustainable materials, chemicals, and processes. Whether you are curious about our research, interested in partnerships, or simply want to exchange ideas, our team will be there to connect and engage.
Visual Talk with Prof. Roland Ludwig
Don’t miss the visual talk between research director Roland Ludwig and chemist and designer Johannes Richers, who will present insights into the field of circular bioengineering. Richers will also illustrate the conversation live on screen in a visual, drawn way.
The visual talk will showcase how cutting-edge research can enable sustainable biotechnological solutions. This talk is a great opportunity to gain a casual understanding of the topic, but also deeper insights into the scientific foundations and future potential of circular bioengineering.
How to Participate
Registration at this conference is free of charge and can be done on the conference’s website. Please note that the capacity of attendance is limited, so we kindly ask you to make sure to register prior to the event.
Evening event: Opening Reception for the Art Exhibition WASTE IS A MYTH
After the daily event, there will be an exciting opening reception for the art exhibition WASTE IS A MYTH in the evening.
WASTE IS A MYTH is an invitation to understand and rethink cycles within the intersection of art and research. The event includes collaborations between researchers from the Circular Bioengineering Cluster and artists from the Research Cluster Sustainability in the Arts at the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna. You can find all the information you need about the evening programme here, and register using this form.