It is the result of social, political, and corporate interests. In the context of the upscaling, two important aspects can be distinguished in the 2 Seas region:

1. The difference in approach between countries, because of culture and political background. What can we learn from the different approaches to ultimately achieve an improvement?
2. There is opportunity in legislation and regulations. There is always some flexibility in the implementation when it comes to interpretation. This space and flexibility may enhance or constrain freedom in development. Both sides have been studied.

A selection of the findings

• Laws and regulations do not hinder circular bio-based construction. Forerunners within the sector operate within the (legal) margins.
• No differences in the recognition of the problem have been observed between the four countries in the two seas area. The solution per country is different and depends on the administrative culture. ‘Solutions’ vary between central(er) political management ‘versus’ a greater role for the market parties.
• The promotion and certification of bio-based products presents major challenges. There are parallels with the introduction of innovative products. Introduction of ‘Bio-based’ products encounters the same problems as any other product.
• Government control is increasingly being based upon the LCA databases, especially in France and the Netherlands.
• Legislation and regulations in the field of spatial planning and ’tracking & tracing’ of material flows are becoming more important to better balance the relationship between the production of raw materials and the use of these raw materials.
• Eliminating differences in laws and regulations between countries is crucial for creating smoothly running supply and purchase flows.

Finally

The report ends with a reflection on ‘legislative and regulatory findings’, which provides a basis for further research and project- and policy development. Attention has been paid to three themes:

• Monitoring the impact of laws and regulations (regulating, stimulating).
• The need for further coordination between the (European) regions (spatial planning and material flows).
• Space for organizing the (legal) process in case of adjustments related to function change and flexibility.