In SOWISE+, replication means assessing whether the technologies, processes and business model demonstrated at the flagship site can be transferred to other regions and integrated into their existing waste-management systems.
The SOWISE+ model can potentially be replicated either as an integrated solution, combining the biowaste-to-PHBV and AHP-derived cellulose valorisation lines, or through individual modules adapted to local needs. The PHBV production line is particularly suited to integration with existing biowaste-treatment infrastructure, while the cellulose line depends on the availability or development of separate collection and recycling systems for absorbent hygiene products.
Potential replicators include municipalities, municipal and private waste-management operators, multi-utilities and other organisations responsible for the collection and treatment of urban waste. Existing operators with suitable biowaste-processing infrastructure may be able to integrate the PHBV process into their current facilities, while territories collecting absorbent hygiene products could assess the feasibility of introducing an additional cellulose-recovery route.
For each replication region, SOWISE+ will examine the conditions that could enable or limit implementation of the model.
The assessment will focus on the availability and characteristics of the two main feedstocks used by SOWISE+: separately collected urban biowaste and post-consumer absorbent hygiene products (AHPs). Samples from the four regions will be tested within the project to assess how differences in local collection systems and waste composition may affect process performance.
Local partners will analyse the waste-treatment facilities, collection systems, logistics and other infrastructure already available in their territories. Particular attention will be paid to the potential to integrate the SOWISE+ processes with existing facilities and to the additional infrastructure or equipment that would be required.
Replication will also depend on the local and national regulatory framework. The analysis will consider relevant waste-management requirements, permitting, End-of-Waste conditions and other legal factors that could facilitate or hinder implementation. Regulatory and policy barriers are also being addressed through stakeholder engagement and policy activities elsewhere in the project.
Each region will undergo a techno-economic assessment. This will consider the investment and operating costs associated with replication, potential economic benefits and expected return on investment. A preliminary business case will support the evaluation of whether implementation could be financially viable in each local context.
The project will also examine local stakeholder needs, social acceptance and potential benefits for municipalities and communities. These may include improved waste-management services, reduced disposal costs, new revenue streams, local economic development and green job creation.
Local authorities, waste operators, industry representatives, policymakers, citizens and other relevant actors will be involved in the replication process. Each replication region will identify key stakeholders and develop a local engagement approach to gather feedback, identify barriers and help shape realistic implementation scenarios.
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The Spanish replication case is centred on Las Rozas, in the Madrid Region. Las Rozas Innova is the public innovation company of the City Council of Las Rozas and works on sustainability, circular economy and urban innovation. The municipality has approximately 100,000 inhabitants and a high level of economic activity, making it a relevant urban context for assessing the integration of new circular waste-management solutions.
The SOWISE+ replication study will analyse how the model could be adapted to the local waste-management system and incorporated into a municipal context. The assessment will cover the current management of biowaste and AHP waste, the availability of suitable feedstocks, infrastructure and logistics, and the regulatory conditions affecting implementation.
Particular attention will also be given to municipal integration and citizen engagement. The project will assess how local authorities and citizens could participate in and benefit from improved separate collection and higher-value waste valorisation. The replication work is also intended to support alignment with Spanish waste-prevention and circular-economy objectives.
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