Key achievements include:
Development of the BTI Framework and Sustainability Assessment (WP1): Environmental Impact Analysis: Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) were performed on selected bio‐based systems using methodologies such as ReCiPe and Environmental Footprint. These analyses quantified impacts related to greenhouse gas emissions, resource consumption, and waste outputs.
Circularity Assessment and Indicator Development (WP2): Identification of Circularity Indicators: Through systematic literature reviews, existing circularity metrics were mapped and evaluated. This process led to the selection of key indicators and the development of new, tailored metrics to better capture circularity aspects at the product level.
Digital Monitoring Tools and Data Analytics (WP3): Simulator and Synthetic Data Generation: The simulator tool enabling the generation of synthetic datasets based on real LCA data. These datasets were subsequently used to train machine learning algorithms, supporting the clustering and benchmarking of bio‐based systems.
AI Benchmarking Platform: An AI-driven benchmarking tool is to compare the environmental performance of bio‐based products against conventional benchmarks. This tool leverages advanced statistical and machine learning techniques for robust data analysis.
Self-Assessment and Regulatory Tracker Tools: The self-assessment tool allows users to evaluate their products against multiple sustainability criteria, while the regulatory tracker tool compiles and categorizes relevant policy data to help stakeholders navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.
Replication Facility and Standardization (WP4): Replication Facility Design: A dynamic platform to serve as a knowledge hub for disseminating project outcomes. This facility is designed to showcase methodologies, digital tools, and best practices, ensuring that the project’s innovations can be upscaled and replicated.
Standardization Efforts: The consortium initiated formal liaisons with ISO/TC 323 (Circular Economy) and ISO/TC 207/SC5 (Life Cycle Assessment) to align the project’s methodologies with international standards, thereby enhancing the credibility and adoption of its frameworks.
Outcomes of the Actions: Comprehensive Frameworks:
Innovative Digital Tools: A suite of digital monitoring tools has been developing, integrating simulation, AI-based benchmarking, self-assessment, and regulatory tracking capabilities.
Standardization and Policy Relevance: Active engagement with international standardization bodies ensures that the project’s outcomes are aligned with global best practices, thus enhancing their potential impact on policy development and industry transformation.
Overall, the technical and scientific activities have provided robust methodologies and tools that are essential for monitoring, assessing, and ultimately improving the sustainability and circularity of industrial bio‐based systems.
