Regional strategies for circular bioeconomies (ROBIN)

ROBIN helped European regions strengthen and adapt their governance models for the circular bioeconomy in a place-based and socially inclusive way. Indeed, Europe’s regional authorities play a crucial role as agents of just, inclusive and resilient economic development for their territories; ROBIN therefore supported them to co-shape governance structures and models that accelerate the achievement of their circular bioeconomy targets.

Across five pilot regions – the Southern region (Ireland), Baden-Württemberg (Germany), Andalusia (Spain), Žilina region (Slovakia) and Central Macedonia (Greece) – the consortium set up Multi‑Actor Regional Constellations (MARCs), supported regional authorities in co-creating circular bioeconomy governance structures and models and developing circular bioeconomy strategies, and implemented coordinated support and validation actions with stakeholders from public authorities, business, academia and civil society.

A core result of the project is the ROBIN Toolbox, combining (i) a knowledge platform on governance models and good practices, (ii) three practical tools (Circular Bioeconomy Governance Model Canvas, Policy Monitoring System and Environmental Protection Planning tool) and (iii) a Support Actions Portfolio. The Toolbox was tested and improved in two rounds and validated with 18 additional European regional authorities, supporting regions to improve the design, operation, and monitoring of their governance models.

ROBIN’s impact and lessons were consolidated into a monitoring and evaluation framework as well as replication materials, including a Replication Guide, Policy Briefs and a White Paper to support uptake beyond the pilot regions.

Steinbeis Europa Zentrum played a key role as project parter by:

Developing, testing and validating circular bioeconomy governance models in and for Baden-Württemberg
Acting as the regional node in Baden-Württemberg and implementing regional support and validation activities, including exchanges with external regions
Leading the development of the ROBIN Toolbox for the implementation of circular bioeconomy strategies and coordinating the toolbox evaluation, maintenance and improvement based on systematic feedback from partners and external stakeholders
Coordinating networking, clustering and collaboration activities with the Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI) and 18 relevant projects, initiatives and networks
Supporting dissemination and communication activities

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