Industrial symbiosis in the wine value chain: a systematic review of research trends, barriers, and drivers

Abstract

The wine industry generates large volumes of by-products with high valorization potential, making Industrial Symbiosis (IS) a key strategy for its circular transition. However, the supporting academic literature remains fragmented, hindering a clear understanding of its dominant trends and knowledge gaps. This systematic review maps the research landscape of IS in the wine value chain to identify its trends, thematic focuses, and research clusters. Following the PRISMA methodology, a search was conducted in Scopus and Web of Science, yielding a final sample of 122 articles. The synthesis combined descriptive statistics with a thematic analysis of key dimensions (methodologies, geographical areas, by-products, recipient industries stakeholders, drivers and barriers), followed by a cluster analysis on the 99 original research articles to identify distinct thematic patterns and research approaches. Results reveal a research field in an early stage of maturity, with a predominance of experimental laboratory studies (60%) focused on grape pomace. Technological issues emerge as the primary barrier (91.9%), while environmental sustainability is the main driver (94.9%). Cluster analysis identifies three distinct research trends: a dominant technocentric stream focused on high-value applications, a second centered on bulk bioeconomy solutions, and a critically underdeveloped cluster focused on systemic implementation. This paper reveals a significant gap between the explored technical potential and the under-researched socio-organizational dimensions required for real-world implementation. In conclusion, this study establishes a roadmap for future research, highlighting the need to shift focus towards business models, collaborative governance, social acceptance, and scaling-up strategies to realize the full potential of IS.