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Navigating the Bioeconomy: Using Delphi-SWOT to Build Robust Strategies for Sustainable Growth

Author

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  • Christina-Ioanna Papadopoulou

    (Department of Regional Development and Cross-Border Studies, University of Western Macedonia, 50100 Kozani, Greece)

  • Stavros Kalogiannidis

    (Department of Business Administration, University of Western Macedonia, 51100 Grevena, Greece)

  • Efstratios Loizou

    (Department of Management Science and Technology, University of Western Macedonia, 50100 Kozani, Greece)

  • Fotios Chatzitheodoridis

    (Department of Management Science and Technology, University of Western Macedonia, 50100 Kozani, Greece)

Abstract

This study aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of the Delphi SWOT tool in formulating a bio-economy strategy for an isolated region. The analysis will highlight the management and planning aspects that are essential for assessing the internal and external circumstances of the region. A total of 16 experts were selected to participate in the Delphi method, which was used to investigate the current state of the bio-economy in the agricultural sector of a small isolated region in Greece. Following the convergence of the experts’ opinions, a SWOT analysis and a set of policy recommendations for the formulation of a bioeconomy strategy were derived. The formulation of a bioeconomy strategy in an isolated region reveals a promising landscape full of opportunities, but also full of challenges. The region has a number of intrinsic advantages that can be used to advance the bioeconomy. The focus on an isolated region limits the applicability of the findings to other regions with different socio-economic contexts. In addition, the Delphi method relies on expert opinion, which is inherently subjective. The bioeconomy concept has the potential to address the challenges faced by a small, mountainous, rural region whose economy has historically been based on energy production from lignite. To facilitate a sustainable transition, it is essential to harness the region’s human capital, promote sustainable agricultural practices, develop innovative products and processes, and establish new value chains that can stimulate economic growth.

Suggested Citation

  • Christina-Ioanna Papadopoulou & Stavros Kalogiannidis & Efstratios Loizou & Fotios Chatzitheodoridis, 2025. "Navigating the Bioeconomy: Using Delphi-SWOT to Build Robust Strategies for Sustainable Growth," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(9), pages 1-22, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:9:p:4131-:d:1648467
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    1. Christina-Ioanna Papadopoulou & Stavros Kalogiannidis & Dimitrios Kalfas & Efstratios Loizou & Fotios Chatzitheodoridis, 2025. "Spatial Variations in Perceptions of Decarbonization Impacts and Public Acceptance of the Bioeconomy in Western Macedonia," Land, MDPI, vol. 14(8), pages 1-20, July.

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