Summary The most commonly cited definition of industrial symbiosis (IS), by Chertow (2000), has served well to foster discussion and research for more than a decade. The definition reflected the state of research and practice at the time; as both have advanced, some terms have been interpreted in substantially different ways. In this article we analyze those generally used terms for their connection to the ecological metaphor that is the root of industrial ecology, and their varied interpretations in IS research and practice over time. We then propose an updated definition intended to communicate the essence of IS as a tool for innovative green growth: IS engages diverse organizations in a network to foster eco‐innovation and long‐term culture change. Creating and sharing knowledge through the network yields mutually profitable transactions for novel sourcing of required inputs and value‐added destinations for non‐product outputs, as well as improved business and technical processes. We posit that, although geographic proximity is often associated with IS, it is neither necessary nor sufficient—nor is a singular focus on physical resource exchange.

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principle be overcome with emerging integrated heat transfer and storage concepts utilising for example phase change materials. Material by-product IS covers the re-use of a wide range of solid, liquid and gaseous by-products. While recovery processes are conceivable for many materials, their application typically depends on measurement and control, and preferably reduction or elimination of minor elements from the by-product stream. Gaseous streams may require selective and efficient concentration of certain materials whilst better process controls in hot processes can be required to manage hazardous emissions that can occur from the use of alternative fuels and raw materials. There may also be a future role in monitoring and controlling low-level contaminants that may have high risk (such as heavy metals in alumina refinery residue). Conclusion This article has introduced the research work on industrial symbiosis .being undertaken at Curtin University of Technology in Western Australia. The work largely focuses on the Kwinana Industrial Area which in recent years has emerged as leading example of industrial symbiosis. During the years between 1990 and 2000, the number of existing interactions increased from 27 to 106, and the total number of industrial symbiosis projects grew to 47. The extensive network of exchanges was shown and specific examples highlighted that IS can result in significant sustainability (l.e. social, economic and environmental) and business benefits. The significant role of technology, measurement and control in enabling IS exchanges was discussed. This is set to grow as research and interest in IS increases due to the rising awareness that ISoffers an excellent way for industry (and regions as a whole) to simultaneously improve its economic, environmental and social performance. With recent (yet to be made public) events at Kwinana there are signs that companies are now seriously considering industrial symbiosis in the design stage offuture operations, which is a major step forward on the road to sustainability. References Altham. W. and R. van Berkel (2004).lndu5triaI5ymbi05i5 forregional5u5tainobiliry :an update on AU5traiian initiatiYes.