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Governance-Centred Industrial Symbiosis for Circular Economy Transitions: A Rural Forest Biomass Hub Framework Proposal

Author

Listed:
  • Joel Joaquim de Santana Filho

    (University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal)

  • Pedro Dinis Gaspar

    (University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
    C-MAST––Centre for Mechanical and Aerospace Science and Technologies, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal)

  • Arminda do Paço

    (University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
    NECE—Research Centre for Business Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6200-001 Covilhã, Portugal)

  • Sara M. Marcelino

    (University of Beira Interior, Rua Marquês d’Ávila e Bolama, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal)

Abstract

This study examines the establishment of a Hub for Circular Economy and Industrial Symbiosis (HUB-CEIS) centred on a forest biomass waste plant in Fundão, Portugal, presenting an innovative model for rural industrial symbiosis, circular economy governance, and sustainable waste management. Designed as a strategic node within a reverse supply chain, the hub facilitates the conversion of solid waste into renewable energy and high-value co-products, including green hydrogen, tailored for industrial and agricultural applications, with an estimated 120 ktCO 2 /year reduction and 60 direct jobs. Aligned with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement, this initiative addresses global challenges such as decarbonization, resource efficiency, and the energy transition. Employing a mixed research methodology, this study integrates a comprehensive literature review, in-depth stakeholder interviews, and comparative case study analysis to formulate a governance framework fostering regional partnerships between industry, government, and local communities. The findings highlight Fundão’s potential to become a benchmark for rural industrial symbiosis, offering a replicable model for circularity in non-urban contexts, with a projected investment of USD 60 M. Special emphasis is placed on the green hydrogen value chain, positioning it as a key enabler for regional sustainability. This research underscores the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration in achieving scalable and efficient waste recovery processes. By delivering practical insights and a robust governance structure, the study contributes to the circular economy literature, providing actionable strategies for implementing rural reverse supply chains. Beyond validating waste valorization and renewable energy production, the proposed hub establishes a blueprint for sustainable rural industrial development, promoting long-term industrial symbiosis integration.

Suggested Citation

  • Joel Joaquim de Santana Filho & Pedro Dinis Gaspar & Arminda do Paço & Sara M. Marcelino, 2025. "Governance-Centred Industrial Symbiosis for Circular Economy Transitions: A Rural Forest Biomass Hub Framework Proposal," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(12), pages 1-30, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:12:p:5659-:d:1683062
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Leonel J. R. Nunes, 2025. "Gasification Processes of Portuguese Biomass: Theoretical Analysis of Hydrogen Production Potential," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(16), pages 1-32, August.
    2. Marco A. Vargas & Luis A. Cisternas & Yasna Tapia & Ana Carvalho, 2025. "Socio-Environmental Assessment of a Tailings Water Softening Technology for Reuse in Alternative Systems in Central Chile: An Approach to Industrial Ecology," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(20), pages 1-19, October.
    3. Ana Marija Alfirević & Maja Mihaljević Kosor & Nikša Alfirević, 2025. "Institutional and Entrepreneurial Drivers of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises’ Circular Economy Practices in Central and Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(16), pages 1-12, August.

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