Industrial symbiosis in Slovenia is gaining attention, yet progress is slow. Systemic barriers, unclear laws, and lack of knowledge hinder growth, but new initiatives like the INSET project aim to build skills and drive circular change.

Industrial symbiosis—the exchange of materials, energy, water, or waste between companies—offers an efficient path toward a circular economy. It reduces waste, saves resources, and lowers costs. Yet in Slovenia, its development remains modest, as highlighted by the sustainability portal Zelena Slovenija (2023).
The main obstacle is the lack of a systemic framework. Industrial symbiosis has no dedicated strategy, incentives, or clear coordination between businesses and institutions. The secondary raw materials market is weak and fragmented, making it hard to ensure consistent supply and quality.
Another challenge is unclear legislation, especially the line between waste and secondary raw materials. Complex regulations and differing interpretations discourage companies from reusing by-products. Spatial planning also limits cooperation—many firms that could collaborate are not geographically close, and infrastructure is missing.
Knowledge gaps further slow progress. Many managers are unaware of industrial symbiosis or how to integrate it into their operations. When cooperation does occur, it is often spontaneous rather than planned or strategic.
Still, some positive examples show its potential. Companies such as AquafilSLO and HELLA Saturnus Slovenija already exchange excess heat, demonstrating real environmental and financial benefits. Digital tools like e-Simbioza and VCG.AI, launched by the Štajerska Chamber of Commerce, connect companies and identify resource-sharing opportunities (Zelena Slovenija, 2023).
To move forward, Slovenia needs stronger policy support, clearer rules, and better education. The INSET project contributes by training a new generation of professionals who can apply industrial symbiosis in practice and help shape a more sustainable, circular economy.