To transition to a sustainable, net-zero society, we must effectively manage the waste generated by both urban and industrial sectors. As cities become increasingly resource-dependent, they produce significant amounts of waste, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for innovative solutions. Industrial-urban Symbiosis (I-US) offers a promising approach, turning waste from one process into valuable input for another, thus promoting resource efficiency and the transition to a circular economy.

In response to the need for increased knowledge and exchange on I-US, the EU-funded project SYMSITES, of which ICLEI is a partner, is launching the SYMSITES Network of Waste Associations, which aims to connect waste associations and cities interested in I-US. The network will offer training materials for the implementation of I-US, comprehensive I-US replication guidance and virtual tours of the SYMSITES pilot I-US initiatives in Spain, Greece, Denmark and Austria. The SYMSITES project aims at developing new technologies and solutions based on the I-US concept, for local and regional collaborations among diverse actors (Citizens, Municipalities and Entreprises) and sectors improving the reuse of industrial and urban resources starting with urban and industrial wastewater and waste materials.

I-US is when underutilised urban or industrial material streams - including waste, by-products, residues, energy and water are exchanged as feedstock in industrial processes, subsequently closing a material loop - for example, urban wastewater treatment by-products being used as inputs in the manufacturing of fertiliser. As a result, urban and industrial resources are kept in productive use for longer. By harnessing this potential for symbiosis with local industry, I-US can be a powerful tool for local and regional governments to transition to the circular economy. Key benefits for cities include:

• Reduced resource consumption and GHG emissions.
• Increased resource and energy security.
• A contribution towards decarbonisation via use of excess industrial process energy.
• Moreover, I-US can help maintain key industries, attract new business and provide alternative sources of revenue by valuing what was once considered a waste.
• This innovation can create new job opportunities and regional development.

If you are an interested public waste or wastewater agency or city municipality, join the network now by sending an email of interest to aisling.connolly@iclei.org!

Learn more about SYMSITES here.