Developing and implementing a transdisciplinary framework for future pathways in the circular bioeconomy: The case of the red meat industry

Abstract

Drawing on the development and implementation of a facilitated transdisciplinary research process in the case of the red meat industry in Ireland, this paper provides a framework by which diverse knowledge sources can be brought together to develop pathways for the circular bioeconomy. Furthermore, through identifying, analysing and evaluating a large number of value chains using this framework (involving a systematic review of academic literature, a grey literature review, an industry survey and a Delphi study), it presents a pathway for the utilisation of meat co-processing streams across several sectors. It highlights the value of grey literature as a complement to the academic literature (identifying almost four times as many value chain opportunities as the academic literature). Furthermore, it illustrates the wide-ranging knowledge that a relatively small group of experts (25) can provide in a short period time to help assess the feasibility of a manageable number of value chains (14 in this case). As this case study is framed around an ambition to develop a roadmap for industry in valorising meat industry co-products, the authors draw attention to the role of industry in providing knowledge but also influencing the direction of the work, and hence the results. Thus it indicates the need to consider other voices in such processes where broader sustainability objectives are at play.