Using systems engineering to create a framework for evaluating industrial symbiosis options

TLDR

Industrial symbiosis has been replicated worldwide after Kalundborg’s success, yet modeling its complex interactions requires guidance to decide what to model and keep the process focused. This paper applies systems engineering to create a framework for modeling industrial symbiosis. The framework is developed using systems engineering principles and illustrated through a case study. The framework offers a practical roadmap linking concepts and techniques for modeling industrial symbiosis. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Syst Eng.

Abstract

Motivated by the success of industrial symbiosis at Kalundborg, Denmark, there have been many attempts to establish industrial symbiosis around the world. Modeling the complex system that underlies an industrial symbiosis provides much needed understanding of these interactions in the planning stage. Therefore, guidance and-or a framework are needed to identify “what to model” and to keep the modeling process on track. This paper applies systems engineering to create a framework for modeling industrial symbiosis. The proposed framework provides a practical road map for the modeling process that connects relevant concepts and techniques. A case is introduced to illustrate use of the framework. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng