W. Spekkink (2015)
This doctoral research explores the social dimension of industrial symbiosis, focusing on social mechanisms and network dynamics. Case studies include established and emerging IS networks such as Kalundborg, Sagunto and UK-based initiatives.
Industrial Symbiosis in Practice: Drivers, Barriers, and Implementation Dynamics in Sustainable Industrial Systems
This thesis examines the development and implementation of industrial symbiosis as a key strategy for advancing sustainability within industrial systems. It investigates how collaboration between firms enables the exchange of materials, energy, and by-products, thereby improving resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The research adopts a multi-level perspective, analyzing both structural and organizational factors that influence the emergence and success of symbiotic networks. Particular attention is given to the role of economic incentives, regulatory frameworks, trust among stakeholders, and geographic proximity in shaping industrial cooperation. Through empirical case analysis, the study identifies critical drivers that facilitate symbiosis, as well as barriers that hinder its wider adoption, such as information gaps, coordination challenges, and institutional constraints. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how industrial symbiosis can be effectively fostered, offering insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to accelerate the transition toward a circular economy.