An eco-industrial park is a community of businesses located on a common property in which businesses seek to achieve enhanced environmental, economic and social performance through collaboration in managing environmental and resource issues. This is known as industrial symbiosis, which is a means by which companies can gain a competitive advantage through the physical exchange of materials, energy, water and by-products, thereby fostering inclusive and sustainable development.
Eco-industrial park development aims to embed industries in society through the creation of shared economic opportunities, improved ecosystems and innovative avenues for responsible business practices. Among their many benefits, eco-industrial parks promote resource efficiency and circular economy practices, also helping to bridge the gap between cities and industries by making a significant contribution to sustainable cities.
This International Guidelines for Industrial Parks address the industrial park’s planning and design, construction, operations, marketing & investment promotion, waste management, and energy management. They are intended to be used and applied to industrial parks by a variety of stakeholders, including: Park Regulators, Park Developers, Park Operators, Park Tenants, and Stakeholders and partners such as multilateral development agencies and financial institutions.