Asturias, a region in northern Spain, is actively embracing the principles of the circular economy to foster sustainable development and environmental stewardship. This approach aims to redefine traditional linear models of production and consumption by promoting resource efficiency, waste reduction, and the continual use of materials.

Strategic Framework

In March 2023, the Principality of Asturias unveiled its Circular Economy Strategy, outlining a roadmap toward a more sustainable economic model by 2030. The strategy focuses on several key objectives:

- Enhancing Resource Efficiency: Aiming to double the region's Material Circularity Indicator (MCI) by 2030 and reduce material usage intensity by 30%.

- Maximizing Waste Valorization: Targeting a 50% material recovery rate from waste and increasing the market share of secondary raw materials to 5%.

- Promoting Renewable Energy: Striving to double energy production from renewable gases derived from waste.

- Advancing Bioeconomy: Seeking a 20% increase in the recovery and production of bio-based materials annually.

- Efficient Water Management: Aiming for a 10% improvement in water use efficiency and a 20% increase in water reclamation.

These objectives are supported by specific programs and action lines, including eco-design, sustainable manufacturing, responsible consumption, and public awareness initiatives.

Industrial Initiatives

The region of Asturias is witnessing significant industrial transformations aligned with circular economy principles:

- Naeco Fibers: A collaboration between Asturian company Naeco and South Korean firm Mecen IPC has led to the creation of Naeco Fibers. This venture involves an €11 million investment to establish a facility in Olloniego for producing polyester fiber and geotextiles from recycled PET waste, projected to create 42 jobs over five years.

- EDP's Green Hydrogen Project: Energy company EDP is repurposing the Aboño thermal power plant into a green hydrogen production facility. The Asturias H2 Valley project plans to install 150 MW of electrolysis capacity to supply hydrogen to local industries, with operations expected to commence in 2026.

- Vidrala's Sustainable Glass Production: Glass manufacturer Vidrala, in collaboration with Acciona Energía, is incorporating biomass slag into its glass production process. This initiative, with slag treatment conducted in Asturias, exemplifies industrial symbiosis and reduces reliance on virgin raw materials.

Innovative Practices

The region is also home to pioneering practices that embody circular economy concepts:

- Fungi Natur: This agroecological enterprise cultivates exotic mushrooms using traditional Japanese methods on native hardwood logs. By aligning cultivation techniques with the local climate, Fungi Natur produces high-quality mushrooms with minimal environmental impact. 

- Recorchu Project: A cork recycling initiative in Asturias, Recorchu aims to transform waste into resources, aligning with both regional and European circular economy strategies.

Challenges and Outlook

Despite these advancements, Asturias faces challenges in waste management and recycling. Spain, as a whole, is striving to meet European recycling targets, with significant disparities observed between municipalities. Addressing these issues requires continued efforts in public awareness, infrastructure development, and policy enforcement. 

In conclusion, Asturias is making commendable strides toward embedding circular economy principles across various sectors. The region is paving the way for a sustainable and resilient future through strategic planning, industrial innovation, and community engagement.

Nelson Mendes, researcher and vice-president of the AACI  - Asturian Association for International  Cooperation