NEW_InnoNet was not focused on generating new knowledge but on strengthening the knowledge base. The project has done so by bringing together available information on value chains, innovation and technologies. In the first period, available information was gathered on value chains and on technologies. The second period completed this by mapping the innovation landscape on circular economy (1200+ actors); describing research trends based on analysis of 275+ projects; set-up a database on 140+ recycling technologies; identify promising 100+ use cases; describing 50+ instruments for regional policymakers. To make this strengthened knowledge base widely available, the partners relied on various communication activities, i.e. the report itself; a publication for the general public; oral presentation at conferences; direct stakeholder communications.
To reach maximal impact we collaborated with relevant initiatives as much as possible. In the first phase, it has achieved this by: solicit input of other initiatives (e.g. on the roadmaps and ideations); align activities with other initiatives (e.g. New Plastic Economy initiative); consult initiatives on their actions and experiences (e.g. FoF, EIP, and SusChem). In the second part of the project, a specific emphasis has been placed on collaboration with EU projects. Projects were identified using CORDIS, LIFE-database, INTERREG-databases, and Eco-innovation database. Interactions with other EU-projects resulted in active contributions at NEW_InnoNet events.
In addition to alignment with (EU) initiatives, the project aimed for an increase of industry and SME involvement in circular economy policy and in research driven initiatives. Initially this objective turned out to be more difficult than expected due to the stakeholder fatigue. More direct, consultative dialogue resulted in the desired involvement. Important dialogue partners have been industry associations that communicated the ideas and needs of their members. In addition, the project provided a platform for individual industrial actors to present their companies and innovations. Integration of industry is visible in their participation in the events and in the number reached by the project.
NEW_InnoNet continued with the facilitation of dialogues in the second project period. Dialogues were facilitated by: (1) web-platform for ideas & new practices; (2) consortium-building tool & services; (3) dialogue & networking sessions. To ensure impact after the project the partners took the initiative to set up a sustainable ecosystem for collaborative innovation in recycling, remanufacturing and re-use.
