Employing Industrial Symbiosis to Promote Sustainable Industrial Activities as a Transformational Change Tool

Background Industrial Symbiosis (IS) is a core strategy for achieving circular economy and sustainable industrial transformation. This paper explores IS as a tool to enable systemic change in industrial ecosystems by promoting material and energy exchanges between traditionally unrelated companies. Results Drawing on the framework and findings of the LIAISE COST Action, the study analyses successful IS case studies worldwide and synthesises key enablers, barriers, and governance mechanisms. The results highlight that IS implementation is most effective when supported by digital tools, collaborative governance models, and supportive policy frameworks. Conclusions The research provides a roadmap for embedding IS practices into industrial policy and regional planning. It emphasises the relevance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, standardisation, and education to accelerate Europe’s transition towards circular and low-carbon industrial systems.