SMEs frequently face difficulties in adopting circular economy practices and advanced manufacturing technologies, primarily due to a lack of specialized knowledge, limited resources, and insufficient technical support. The main constraints include restricted access to technical expertise, high implementation costs, and the complexity of the circular solutions ecosystem. CIRC-2-ZERO addresses these challenges through three key initiatives. First, a Digital Twin–based platform for simulating and optimizing circularity-oriented processes. Second, the provision of validated solutions for circular product design and value chain optimization. Third, the establishment of a network of Resilience Transformation Hubs to support training, mentoring, and collaborative innovation. Together, these solutions aim to equip SMEs for an effective transition toward the circular economy and advanced manufacturing, while also promoting increased competitiveness, reduced waste, and more efficient resource use.

The CIRC-2-ZERO project addresses the challenge of accelerating decarbonization and strengthening advanced manufacturing capabilities among SMEs in the Baltic Sea Region (BSR). The initiative targets SMEs in the electronics and processed/engineered wood sectors, as well as large enterprises, business support organizations, and research institutions.

The CIRC-2-ZERO project adopts a collaborative, systems-oriented innovation approach designed to accelerate SMEs’ transition toward circular and low-carbon production models. It integrates advanced digital tools, real-world solution development, and the establishment of supportive transformation networks. This approach is structured around three core pillars: (1) the application of Digital Twin technologies to simulate, analyze, and optimize industrial processes with a focus on circularity; (2) the design and validation of circular product solutions and value chain optimization methods; and (3) the creation of a network of Resilience Transformation Hubs to foster capacity building, mentoring, and collaboration among companies, support organizations, and research institutions. The methodology emphasizes stakeholder co-creation, applied experimentation, and knowledge transfer, ensuring that solutions are tailored to the specific needs of SMEs in the target sectors. In this way, the project supports a sustainable structural transformation that simultaneously enhances industrial competitiveness and advances decarbonization objectives.

The CIRC-2-ZERO project is expected to make a significant contribution to academic research by advancing knowledge in the fields of circular economy, industrial decarbonization, and advanced manufacturing in SMEs. In particular, it will support the development and validation of innovative methodological approaches that combine digital simulation tools, such as Digital Twins, with decision-support processes and collaborative innovation practices. The project will also deepen understanding of the systemic transition from linear to circular production models, as well as identify the key success factors for the adoption of advanced technologies by SMEs in traditional industrial sectors. In parallel, it will enable the production of scientific publications, presentations at international conferences, and the development of case studies based on real-world applications. Furthermore, it is expected to strengthen cooperation between universities, research centers, and industry stakeholders, fostering knowledge exchange and contributing to the consolidation of international research networks in the Baltic Sea Region.

The CIRC-2-ZERO project is expected to generate significant social and economic impacts by strengthening the competitiveness and resilience of SMEs in the Baltic Sea Region through their transition to circular and low-carbon production models. From an economic perspective, the project is anticipated to enhance production efficiency, reduce costs related to waste and resource consumption, and create new business opportunities driven by sustainable innovation and advanced manufacturing. It will also contribute to the modernization of industrial value chains by fostering stronger integration among companies, research centers, and business support organizations. On the social dimension, the project will support the development of digital and green skills through training, capacity-building, and mentoring activities, helping to upskill the workforce and prepare it for the demands of the green and digital transitions. In addition, it will promote a culture of collaborative innovation and sustainability, with positive effects on territorial cohesion and regional employment.

.

No records found.

No records found.

No records found.

No records found.

No records found.

No records found.

With the objective to increase the research activity directed towards the achievement of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, the possibility of associating scientific projects with the Sustainable Development Goals is now available in Ciência_Iscte. These are the Sustainable Development Goals identified for this project. For more detailed information on the Sustainable Development Goals, click here.