Integrated approaches to environmental protection and biotechnology: Eco-balance and economic efficiency analysis in the innovation process

The main objectives of integrated approaches to environmental protection in industrial processes are cost reduction and a reduction of environmental i mpact. Environmental protection measures should be integrated into the inno vation processes since it is during the development stage that some 80 % of the overall costs arise. Substantial potential for such innovation exists in the chemical industry, especially in the field of fine chemicals. The su bstitution of traditional chemical industrial procedures by biotechnologica l methods appears particularly promising. For example, the use of enzymes ( extremozymes) or fermentative methods has much to offer. Estimation of the benefits of such procedures critically depends on information instruments s uch as eco-balances in combination with analysis of economic efficiency. Si nce such instruments are not consistent in their approach and application, further considerations concerning the amalgamation are required.