Circularity at Meso Level: A Sector Perspective

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter provides an overview of the application of CE at the meso level. The authors focus on EIPs, as the most representative cases at this level. The EIPs are unique examples showing how companies can cooperate in sharing resources such as water, energy, material, by-products, and services. Case studies of EIPs (IZ NÖ-Süd in Austria and Ulsan Mipo and Onsan Industrial Park) are presented, with their environmental, economic, and social performances tracked through existing evaluation frameworks. To provide a deeper perspective on the topic, the origins, evolution, and current performances of Kalundborg Symbiosis EIP in Denmark, the well-known longstanding case of EIP are briefly summarized. Moreover, the current monitoring framework developed by the Chinese government complements the analysis. So far, China has developed the largest EIP program worldwide. Overall, the EIPs case studies show that, besides the economic benefits, EIPs provide environmental and social benefits depending on their implementation and management. In such a way, the cases show how EIPs can contribute to diversifying the industrial context in a more sustainable way and more in harmony with the natural environment and the surrounding social community.