Industrial ecosystem as the basis for the Circular Economy in the metallurgical industry

Circular Economy is a current priority of the European Commission's economic policy. In production processes, also in the metallurgical industry, this involves application of the Best Available Techniques (BAT) and support of innovative industrial processes and practices that enable Industrial Symbiosis - waste or by-products from one industry become raw material for another, which is particularly important in the case of critical raw materials. An example of a Metallurgical Industrial Ecosystem is provided by ZGH Bolesław Group, the main producer of Zinc and Lead in Europe. The Group consists of ZGH Bolesław S.A. in Bukowno, HCM S.A. in Miasteczko Ślaskie and Bolesław Recycling S.A. in Bukowno. The aim of the Group is to better utilize raw materials and recycle of wastes. Within the ecosystem, the Group uses four technologies that create a closed circuit and that are mutually complement. This way, it is possible to use different batch materials. The aim of this article is to present environmental benefits of metallurgical ecosystem-based industrial cooperation (Industrial Symbiosis). Important environmental aspects were analysed together with overall process balance and the effects of the use of individual logistic and technology solutions.