Spoke 2 at Ecomondo 2025: RM6 brings its research on Industrial Symbiosis to the trade fair
From 5 to 8 November 2025, Research Module 6 of GRIP, part of Spoke 2 - Green Technologies & Sustainable Industries of NODES, will participate in the latest edition of Ecomondo, Europe's leading trade fair dedicated to ecological transition and the circular economy, hosted as always at the Rimini Exhibition Centre.
Industrial Symbiosis: a survey to understand and improve practices in the area
The focus of the presentation by Spoke 2 researcher Giulia Lippi was Research Module 6 - Industrial Symbiosis, which presented the study ‘Survey on the practices and perceptions of industrial symbiosis in the regions of North-West Italy’, carried out by Giulia Lippi (Università di Torino) together with Matteo Scacchi, Ila Stefania Maltese, Elena Maggi and Enrica Vesce (Università degli Studi dell’Insubria and Università di Torino).
The research analysed a sample of companies in the NODES territory to understand how much and how industrial symbiosis is already being applied, identifying strengths, obstacles and policy opportunities.
Some key findings:
- 72% of the companies surveyed adopt circular economy strategies;
- however, 66% of companies in the waste sector do not yet consider industrial symbiosis a viable option;
- the main enabling factors include economic incentives, convenience, reputation and territorial collaboration;
- the main obstacles include high technology costs, regulatory uncertainties and logistical difficulties.
From Research to Policy
The study highlights the need for clearer and more targeted support policies, including:
- incentives for the purchase of innovative technologies and to promote symbiotic markets;
- regulatory simplification regarding End-of-Waste;
- promotion of local symbiotic practices based on the specific characteristics of the territory.
A step towards sustainability
With this participation, Spoke 2 confirms its commitment to promoting the transfer of knowledge and technology from the world of research to businesses, promoting increasingly sustainable and circular production models.
Ecomondo 2025 proved to be a showcase for innovation and networking, but also an opportunity to strengthen the role of Spoke 2 as a driver of change for a more digital and sustainable North-West.
