The Bioeconomy and Historically Underserved Communities

This chapter explores the intersection of the emerging bioeconomy and historically underserved communities in the United States. Drawing on USDA data and case studies, this chapter assesses the potential of these segments to foster equitable development, especially as climate change reshapes agricultural geographies and employment landscapes. The green (agriculture, forestry) and brown (waste reuse) bioeconomies present the most immediate opportunities for underserved communities, particularly through specialty crop production, composting, and waste valorization. Significant challenges to integrate into the bioeconomy include limited capital, information asymmetries, mistrust in institutions, and regulatory barriers, which may hinder the participation of small-scale, minority, and female farmers in bioeconomic ventures. It stresses the importance of targeted education and workforce development, particularly through partnerships with land-grant institutions and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The bioeconomy holds promise it holds for developing countries if appropriate investments in research, infrastructure, and equitable access are made. While the bioeconomy offers a path toward sustainability and equity, realizing its inclusive potential will require coordinated policy action, financial support, and community-driven engagement.