Innovative techniques hold the promise of delivering solutions to using resources and energy more efficiently in production and consumption. Some initial solutions have been developed in the areas of nano- and biotechnology. Putting them to use for the sake of sustainable economy will help to solve many global environmental problems. The German Environment Agency (UBA) is exploring how each technique can be put to specific use, which all depends on its application (e.g. saving energy and resources through functional optimization, substitution of the use of hazardous substances). Innovative techniques may have significant ecological advantages and are gaining competitive standing in more and more industrial sectors. However, they can also harbour risks for people and the environment. The German Environment Agency is carrying out research to assess the potential and risks of these technologies.