How can the gap between scientific theory and business practice be bridged? That’s the question students in the Biomass Economics course tackled on the 19th of May 2025, when they swapped the campus of Hochschule Bremen (HSB City University of Applied Science) for that at the Brüning Group. Svenja Bätz, Director of International Business Development, and Conrad Schulze, International Business Development Manager, organised the programme. The day offered practical insights into the opportunities and challenges surrounding the sustainable use of different types of biomass and reflected one central idea: linking academic knowledge with business reality in a targeted way.
HANDS-ON BIOMASS
To kick things off, the students were invited to take part in an interactive quiz with a practical focus: they were given various unusual samples of biomass to touch, smell, and guess, including cashew nut shells, palm kernel shells, pine bark, straw granulate, and digested residue substrate. Although some of the products were not easy to identify, the students impressed with many correct guesses and great interest. The playful introduction showed how diverse and surprising the world of biomass can be and sparked lively discussions about the potential and challenges in the market.
BIOMASS IN TRANSITION – CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
In the subsequent presentation by Svenja and Conrad, it was clear how dynamic the conditions for the biomass market are today: material availability, market volatility, rising transport costs, and growing requirements for traceability pose major challenges for the sector. At the same time, pressure is growing on industry and energy suppliers to integrate sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels in the wake of decarbonisation and defossilisation.
Here, the Brüning Group is well positioned as a strategic partner with sustainable solutions, tailor-made supply chains, and a clear focus on circular economy. The company’s ambition goes beyond simply supplying biomass: many biogenic raw materials cannot be used directly as fossil fuel substitutes. Instead, technological advances and new approaches are needed. The exchange with the scientific community provides valuable impetus in this regard.
THEORY AND PRACTICE
The discussions that followed impressively demonstrated the potential that lies in the interlinking of universities and companies. At the Brüning Group, theoretical models meet concrete questions from everyday business – a combination that opens up new perspectives for biomass products and strengthens the practical training of future specialists.
To promote this exchange, the Brüning Group offers a wide range of project opportunities, from internships to graduate theses and project work. The topics are tailored to individual areas of study and enable students to actively participate in their own projects in the field of sustainable energy supply. In an open working environment with flat hierarchies, short decision-making processes, and a dedicated team, students have the opportunity to contribute their ideas, and gain practical experience. After the presentation and a lively round of questions, we ended the day over lunch together. We are already looking forward to continuing this successful exchange through joint projects and cooperation.