Implementing eco-industrial parks in existing clusters. Findings from a historical Italian chemical site

摘要: Industrial Ecology (IE) is considered a recent but very promising research field; it offers new perspectives of solutions to environmental problems related production that combines the aim sustainability, both global and local, with competitiveness companies. The application IE principles at local level lead development Eco-Industrial Parks (EIPs). An EIP can arise spontaneously, by initiative companies, or be guided government; result in creation industrial site involvement plants already present given region. A number factors may promote prevent implementation an EIP: analysis; geographic technical requirements; homogeneity/heterogeneity industries; stakeholders community involvement; regulatory system. We call them Key Drivers. cluster referential model territorial agglomeration companies; has been proven one best models Italian terms efficiency flexibility, strong community. EIPs could viable solution increase sustainability existing clusters, exploiting common features models, primarily, proximity However, also countries characterized large diffusion such as Italy, there are no operating EIPs. This paper presents results project, originally aimed revitalizing historical chemical located Bussi sul Tirino (Abruzzo Region-Italy) through principles. Furthermore, role Drivers specific context analysed. Empirical evidences show particular suitability Chemical Site evolve into EIP, leading towards economic, social benefits. neighbouring clusters establishment companies potential scenarios design. Results point out history long-standing influenced presence played some Drivers, especially community, which proved crucial preventing full EIP.