The Agency for Renewable Resources (or FNR), was founded in 1993 as a government initiative to support research and development in the area of renewable resources. As a project managing organization, the FNR answers to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food (abbreviated BMEL in German). In May 2015, the BMEL announced the new ‘Renewable Resources’ funding program. The Agency for Renewable Resources (FNR) has been entrusted with managing the program. Currently, around 600 projects with a budget of 193 million euro are being funded by the FNR. In 2016 the FNR households 61 million euro provided from Germany’s Federal budget for the implementation of the funding program. An additional 24.6 million euro are allocated for research and development in the field of bioenergy from the Special Energy and Climate Fund (EKF). ‘Renewable Resources’ Funding Program The ‘Renewable Resources’ funding program is part of the government’s new high-tech strategy to improve Germany’s competitive position. It also supports the government’s ‘Policy Strategy on Bioeconomy’, which aims to create a resource-efficient economy that makes use of renewable resources. The program is intended to support the further development of a sustainable bio-based economy. This involves developing innovative, internationally competitive bio-based products, as well as processes and technologies for their production. Furthermore, the program also supports the development of concepts aimed at improving the sustainability of the bio-based economy, while taking society’s expectations into account.
The FNR is a registered association. Its aims are to effectively and indirectly contribute to the development and utilization of renewable energy, and to the direct and indirect use of changes. The bodies of the FNR are
The FNR’s main task is to support research and development in the field of sustainable development and renewable resources. It is our goal to develop promising processes and make them ready for the market. The FNR supports around 6800 projects each year.
The FNR is the first point of contact for all matters concerning renewable resources. Alongside specialist information, explanations and advice also play an important role. The FNR operates on a variety of thematic sites providing renewable resources. In addition, there are numerous publications available in the FNR’s media library. Regular events and industry and consumer exposing the spectrum of activities.
As well as taking part in EU funded projects, the FNR is also involved in European and international committees and working groups that develop strategies for the sustainable use of biomass using innovative and efficient technologies.
Fossil resources like coal, mineral oil Germany, like most industrial nations, has to focus more and more on alternative resources. This means that the agricultural and forestry resources used in a substantial or energetic way can be a major contribution. Renewable resources are not only important for supply guarantee but also for climate protection. Economic Factor of Renewable Resources New economic growth, added value and new jobs – especially in rural areas. They allow economic and social participation to increase the quality of life for the people on the ground. Also in the industrial field, in the chemical industry, renewable resources can be provided.
In a unique pilot project (2007-2010), the FNR, in cooperation with Wikimedia Germany and the nova-Institute, implemented the first government-funded project in Wikipedia: the development of the thematic portal “Renewable Resources”.