Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI
Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI

Project

European industrial regions in the green transformation

Transforming the economy to focus on green industries is important not only for achieving climate targets, but also for ensuring Europe's (and other countries') competitiveness. This is particularly relevant for regions that specialise in energy-intensive or high-emission industries and are therefore under significant decarbonisation pressure, such as the Ruhr area.

The study focuses on identifying regional best practices for the green transition that are crucial for the success of industrial transformation in different spatial contexts.

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The study aims to identify and analyse ten industrial regions in ten European countries that are undergoing green transformation. Specifically, it highlights the approaches adopted by regions contributing to decarbonisation and industrial transformation. It will focus on the actors, strategies, measures and instruments being used in these regions that can be considered best practice.

  • Identification of ten European regions with a high concentration of energy/CO₂-intensive industries, low emissions and green technology development, based on indicators.
  • Regional case studies in these regions using desk research and document analysis to identify relevant structures, actors, activities, and political and institutional frameworks that can be considered best practices for successful industrial transformation.

The in-depth case studies of ten selected European regions illustrate that...

  • …regions are not pursuing passive decarbonisation through deindustrialisation; rather, they are decarbonising existing industries and developing business models based on more sustainable, resource-efficient technologies. To this end, regions are developing mission and vision statements to serve as strategic guidelines for the transformation of their industries.
  • …many regions have the expertise to develop locally adapted solutions, including funding instruments in some cases. Economic and innovation promotion agencies play an important role in government governance, as do universities and other scientific institutions in generating and transferring knowledge.
  • …in addition to EU-wide regulation, a mix of investment, research, technology and innovation funding is in place. These include investment funds for start-ups and innovative SMEs, for example.
  • …large-scale industrial projects located in many regions act as catalysts for the green transformation. As these are often industrial plants with high CO₂ emissions, they have considerable leverage. Their impact therefore extends beyond the regions, as they demonstrate the technical and economic feasibility of innovative technologies.

Duration

3.2025-9.2025

Clients

Scholz & Friends Berlin GmbH