This deliverable presents the results of Work Package 3 (WP3), which focuses on the development and application of methodologies and tools to support companies in their transition toward a more decarbonized and circular economy.
In particular, the work aims to contribute to the design of an open-source data platform integrating multiple data sources and analytical approaches, enabling more informed and data-driven decision-making processes across different production sectors.
The report adopts an interdisciplinary approach that combines methodological analysis, empirical research, and sector-specific applications.
A systematic literature review highlights the central role of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and related life cycle–based methodologies in evaluating circular business models, while also identifying key limitations and areas for further methodological development.
In parallel, a large-scale survey conducted among companies in Italy and Germany provides insights into the adoption of circular economy practices, the role of sustainability-oriented strategies, and the importance of organizational capabilities and managerial commitment in supporting the transition process.
The findings are further enriched by a set of sectoral case studies, including applications in the tissue paper, plasterboard, and agrifood sectors.
These analyses demonstrate how circular economy principles can be operationalized through the integration of technological innovation, data availability, and collaboration across value chains.
In particular, the use of advanced tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) highlights the potential of high-resolution data to improve environmental assessments and support more precise and context-specific interventions.
Overall, the deliverable underscores that the transition toward circularity is a complex and multifaceted process, requiring the integration of robust analytical methodologies, reliable data infrastructures, and strong organizational capabilities.
The development of open-source data platforms emerges as a key enabler to enhance transparency, interoperability, and accessibility of sustainability-related information.
The results presented in this report provide valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the practical implementation of circular and sustainable business models.
