The following article describes a qualitative case study analysis produced by the CoBioEcon Project: Towards a Co-designed Regional Strategy for the Bioeconomy in Ireland. The project is a collaboration between University College Dublin and University of Galway and is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Please visit the www.cobioecon.com for more information.
Introduction
The overall aim of this analysis was to provide data in relation to how current policy and other activities and/or actors enhance and/or hinder circular practice in the bioeconomy agri-food sector of Ireland, in order that barriers can be removed/mitigated and sustainability pathways can be developed/enhanced. This was accomplished through the application of a qualitative exploratory case study applying a total of seventeen in-depth interviews with key practitioners working in the agri-food sector of Ireland. The objectives of this research were:
1) To determine how policy, the role of relevant actors and institutions, and policy provisions and financial supports enhance and/or hinders the current operation of circular practice in the bioeconomy agri-food sector of Ireland;
2) To establish how exemplar circular practices can potentially be replicated in other contexts.
Methodology
Semi-structured in-depth interviews were chosen in order to allow for a more flexible approach to data acquisition, e.g. allowing for emerging themes which may not have been identified via the interview schedule. The approach incorporated elements from both formal and informal interview approaches and allows for more natural cognition processes to occur whereby information is acquired organically and can lead to unexpected and informative results. Interview participants were asked three key questions:
1) Please describe your company’s approach to circular practice (if any)?
2) Please describe the supports, or any other mechanisms, activities, or actors, that enhance your circular practice?
3) Please describe the barriers, or any other challenges or actors, that you think hinder your company’s circular practice?
Objectives
The research aimed to understand how policies, actors, and institutions influence circular practices and how successful examples can be replicated. Semi-structured interviews allowed participants to discuss their circular practices, support mechanisms, and barriers.
Key Recommendations
1. Sustainable Packaging: The transition to 100% recyclable or biodegradable packaging is essential. However, the industry needs better evaluation, awareness, and education regarding packaging innovations, particularly regarding biowaste materials. A biorefinery model could process agri-food waste into biomaterials for packaging, but logistical challenges must be addressed.
3. Farmer Inclusion: Farmers need to be involved in discussions and actions related to bioeconomy solutions. Education on biotechnology, regenerative farming, and precision agriculture will empower them to participate in circular practices.
4. Cost of Circular Practices: Higher costs are a major deterrent to circular practices. Financial support, such as tax incentives, subsidies, and eco-design strategies, can promote investment in circular technologies.
5. EU Policy and Competitiveness: Ireland must align its policies with EU directives while balancing economic and environmental objectives. Investments like the European Green Deal can offset socioeconomic impacts, but global competitiveness must be safeguarded through international agreements.
6. Anaerobic Digestion: Ireland must expand its anaerobic digestion (AD) infrastructure by addressing administrative, financial, and awareness barriers. Incentives such as feed-in tariffs and capital grants can make AD projects more viable.
7. Regulatory Burden: Overregulation frustrates farmers. Simplifying regulations, offering financial incentives, and reducing administrative tasks will encourage participation in circular practices.
8. Supporting SMEs: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) require tailored support, including simplified requirements and improved access to funding.
9. Action-Oriented Development: Shifting from research-led development to action-oriented strategies is necessary for effective bioeconomy advancement. This requires better collaboration frameworks between academia and industry, clear intellectual property agreements, and government support.
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