This project addresses the skills gap hindering industrial symbiosis implementation in Europe. It develops a joint vocational education and training (VET) curriculum, open-access learning materials and governance guidelines to support IS facilitators. The initiative enhances both technical and soft skills, creates new employment opportunities and strengthens circular business models (2019-2022).
SYMBIOSIS – Skills and Training for Industrial Symbiosis in a Circular Economy
The SYMBIOSIS project, funded under the Erasmus+ programme, aims to address the skills gap related to industrial symbiosis and circular economy practices within European industries. Recognising that the transition towards resource-efficient and circular systems requires not only technological innovation but also new competencies, the project focuses on developing targeted education and training solutions for professionals, technicians, and vocational learners.
SYMBIOSIS designs and delivers innovative training curricula, learning modules, and digital tools to support the acquisition of skills needed to identify and implement industrial symbiosis opportunities. These include competences in resource management, cross-sector collaboration, environmental assessment, and circular business models.
Through collaboration between educational institutions, industry partners, and training providers, the project promotes work-based learning and knowledge transfer. Pilot training activities and validation processes ensure the relevance and applicability of the developed materials. The project contributes to strengthening workforce capacity, supporting employability, and enabling the effective uptake of industrial symbiosis practices across Europe.