The geography of knowledge networks for the circular bioeconomy: evidence from collaborative research projects across EU regions

The simultaneous pursuit of circular economy and bioeconomy objectives is crucial for a successful transition towards a more sustainable economic system, as also recognised by European institutions. However, mapping and analysing European research and innovation capacity in circular bioeconomy (CBE) is a challenging task, also due to data shortage. The analysis presented in this chapter aims to map the CBE research and innovation networks in Europe and identify their strengths and weaknesses. We apply network analysis techniques to a sample of collaborative research projects carried out in European regions in the period 2015-2019 and to patent data. The role and position of regions in the networks are assessed using a “node-removal strategy”, while a taxonomy of regional capabilities is developed based on comparisons of regional centrality in research and patent-technology networks. We find evidence of high connectivity in these domains, in the sense of intense collaboration across EU regions. Nonetheless, the analysis also shows that there is a significant heterogeneity in the distribution, capacity, and intensity of the connections, as well as a high concentration around few and very central regions. These findings can be precious for policymakers and other stakeholders who care about reducing the EU research and innovation disparities.