A survey of industrial symbiosis practices and perceptions in the north-west regions of Italy

This paper presents the findings of a survey investigating Industrial Symbiosis practices in north-west Italy. The analysis focuses on seven production sectors: agri-food, chemicals, construction, energy, petrochemicals, textiles and waste services. The survey comprised a questionnaire with two main objectives: investigating current symbiotic practices and analysing the incentives and barriers to adopting industrial symbiosis. 61 eligible responses were considered for the analysis. Almost half of the respondents are already implementing industrial symbiosis. The role of symbiotic companies is investigated by differentiating between producers and users of production residues and considering the logistical aspects. Most respondents consider industrial symbiosis to be a viable strategy in their sector. They perceive economic aspects as the main driver, whilst technological factors are seen as the main barrier to adopting industrial symbiosis.