Bachelor/Master Theses

Measuring sustainability in the bioeconomy
(M.Sc. Thesis or Research Project)

Contact: bioeconomy@uni-passau.de

While some criteria exist, there is no comprehensive approach for determining the sustainability of biomass residues within the bio-based economy. These sustainability criteria must consider both social and ecological criteria such as the protection of biodiversity. In this project, the student will conduct a systematic review with the aim to identify criteria and suitable indicators along the classic definition of sustainability: social, economic and ecological. 

The role of tropical fruit value chains in sustainable development
(M.Sc. Thesis or Research Project)

Contact: bioeconomy@uni-passau.de

In developing countries, where 98% of tropical fruit is cultivated, the emergence of the sustainable bioeconomy could foster sustainable development in rural and peri-urban areas, diversify farmer income and create new jobs. Recently, the expansion of the intensive tropical fruit sector has been criticized for its negative environmental and social effects. Due to its intensive growth, the sector has reduced ecosystem services through land-use change (e.g., deforestation), greenhouse gas emissions, agrochemical contamination and the proliferation of pests. These impacts are compounded by social impacts including land grabs of indigenous territories and labor exploitation. Further, the tropical fruit sector is extremely vulnerable to climate change as deviations in temperature can greatly affect fruit quality. In this project, the student will conduct a systematic review to describe the current status of major value tropical fruit chains and their impacts on household well-being. 

Barriers to smallholder entry in global value chains/webs
(M.Sc. Thesis or Research Project)

Contact: bioeconomy@uni-passau.de

Tropical fruit value chains connect smallholder farmers in developing countries to global markets.  This connection has the potential to transform multiple industries, open new markets as well as create opportunities related to innovation management and knowledge/technology transfer. However, smallholder participation in global value chains/webs faces institutional, policy, technical, economic, and social barriers. In particular, regulatory standards (e.g. quality) in developed countries can pose obstacles for smallholder participation in global value webs. In this project, the student will conduct a systematic review of barriers to smallholder entry in global value chains.

Consumer and stakeholder preferences for bio-based products in Europe
(M.Sc. Thesis)

Contact: bioeconomy@uni-passau.de

A variety of bio-based products are being developed from agricultural residues. In this thesis, the student will (i) conduct a review of European products and standards for bio-based products (e.g. European Commission’s standard EN 16785-1:2015) may facilitate or hinder the emergence of products on the European market. In this project, the student will collect original data. They student has the option to work qualitatively (e.g. stakeholder workshop) or quantitatively (e.g. consumer survey).