Industrial biotechnology, also known as white or even environmental biotechnology, is the modern use and application of biotechnology for the sustainable production of biochemicals, biomaterials and biofuels from renewable resources, using living cells and/or enzymes. White biotechnology is already bringing many innovations to the chemical, textile, food, packaging and health care industries. It is no surprise then that academics, industry and policy makers are increasingly interested in this new technology, its economy and its contributions to a sound environment, which could make it a credible method for sustainable development.

BIT Life Sciences'1st Annual World Congress of iBio-2008 will be held on May 18, 2008, we would like to define this congress as the beginning of a conversation amongst all stakeholders towards the development of new biotechnologies in industry that can have substantial implications for the improvement of life and business together. This conversation, in our opinion, should be guide by advocates in the field of industrial biotechnology. Questions and critical points which need clarification must be addressed in order to reach consensus on the road forward in creating and adopting policies that will encourage the increased application of white biotechnology.

We are committed to bring together experts, researchers, NGOs, policymakers, CEOs to discuss the latest trends in industrial biotechnologies. We firmly believe that these discussions will be to the benefit of us all in working towards a more sustainable society for this and future generation.