The production of bio-based goods in Iowa has helped improve the rural economy with jobs and revenue, The Des Moines Register reported. A report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated production of bio-based items directly created more than 20,000 jobs and contributed $1.74 billion to Iowa’s economy in 2014. Bio-based products made from renewable sources include fabrics, bottles, textiles and cleaning supplies. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, in a speech Monday, said the industry has helped reduce unemployment in the rural U.S. economy below 6 percent, helped cut population losses and helped the environment.