F. Mendez Alva and G. van Eetvelde (2023)
This report evaluates circular economy practices and industrial symbiosis potential in six energy-intensive industries using AIDRES scenarios. It identifies cross-sector synergies that reduce energy use, materials consumption, emissions and costs. Exchanges among steel, refinery, cement, glass and fertiliser sectors—and with urban areas—illustrate how reduce–reuse–recycle–recover strategies foster circular integration.
Advancing Industrial Symbiosis in Europe: Policy Insights and Implementation Strategies
This European Commission publication examines the role of industrial symbiosis in supporting the transition towards a circular and resource-efficient economy in Europe. The report provides an overview of current practices, policy developments, and strategic initiatives aimed at fostering collaboration between industries for the exchange of materials, energy, and by-products. It highlights the importance of integrating industrial symbiosis into broader policy frameworks, including circular economy action plans and sustainability strategies. The study also identifies key challenges, such as regulatory inconsistencies, limited market incentives, and coordination barriers, which hinder wider adoption. Through analysis of case studies and policy instruments, the report outlines recommendations to strengthen enabling conditions, enhance stakeholder cooperation, and scale up successful symbiotic practices. The findings underscore the need for coherent and multi-level governance approaches to fully unlock the potential of industrial symbiosis across Europe.