Novel processing methods and product concepts are required to extend the role of lignin for future biomass and biofuel applications in emerging platforms such as the biorefinery. The possible strategies of lignin valorisation are focused into two main directions, namely the selective functionalisation of the lignin polymer or in its oxidative depolymerization to get polyfunctional monomeric compounds. Here we report a panel of biocatalysis, organometallic catalysis, biomimetic catalysis and plasma oxidation processes developed by our research group for the activation of the environmental friendly oxidants oxygen and hydrogen peroxide in the oxidative functionalisation of lignin and lignin model compounds. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.