ABSTRACT
Most eco-industrial park projects start by estimating the material, water and energy needs of interested businesses. A network flow strategy is then devised to examine synergistic links between existing or interested companies. Afterwards, active recruiting takes place to entice businesses whose production processes will help fill any gaps. According to industrial ecology planners, the most common characteristics of a successful eco-industrial park. 'Industrial ecology' was coined in 1989 by Robert Frosch and Nicolas Gallopoulus to describe the practice of bringing manufacturing and service facilities together in a symbiotic manner. The advantages include a reduction in raw material costs, low waste disposal expenses and reduced energy requirements. Additional benefits associated with symbiotic setups involve a reduction in pollutants, a decrease in company regulatory burdens and lower demands on municipal infrastructures. Nearby cities and towns benefit too, thanks to enhanced business and job development, increased tax revenues and reduced environmental concerns and health costs.
