The Role of Proximity Components in the Development of Industrial Symbiosis Activities: The case of Eskisehir Organised Industrial Zone

Abstract

Industrial symbiosis activities based on circular synergies offer significant opportunities to mitigate the negative environmental impacts of industrial clusters and to promote sustainable regional development. Following the implementation of Turkey's 10th Development Plan, which prioritized cleaner production and ecoefficiency in the industrial sector, the 11th Development Plan also included support for industrial symbiosis initiatives. There is growing recognition of the importance of public support for such collaborative efforts. The literature identifies several factors influencing the development of industrial symbiosis, including environmental conditions, agglomeration externalities, and institutional, organizational, and technical factors. Within the field of environmental economic geography, the concept of proximity is used to explain how geographical, social, cognitive, organizational, and institutional closeness fosters symbiotic relationships and inter-firm linkages. Grounded in this theoretical framework, this study examines how local dynamics and proximity support industrial symbiosis in the Eski & scedil;ehir Organized Industrial Zone. Social network analysis is used to map inter-firm connections and identify relationship structures. In addition, semi-structured interviews are conducted to explore the factors influencing the establishment of symbiotic collaborations. The findings suggest that industrial symbiosis is supported by geographical proximity, shared technical capabilities and market knowledge, mutual economic benefits, legal regulations, and the involvement of enabling institutions. Beyond agglomeration economies, by-product exchange is also linked to firms' technological capabilities and innovative potential. Moreover, public investments and development projects play a crucial role in enhancing these capabilities and expanding circular economy practices.