Resource Transition through Circular Carbon (ReTraCC)

Austria's economy continues to depend on fossil carbon, with carbon from biogenic and secondary materials not yet incorporated into circular systems. The carbon economy is currently fragmented, leading to unexploited synergies, defossilization opportunities, and potential. To meet climate and circular economy objectives, a systemic transformation of carbon flows and the establishment of scalable pathways for value creation towards a circular carbon economy are essential. ReTraCC addresses this gap by employing a data-driven approach to analyze Austria’s carbon value network, develop circular solutions, and evaluate their impacts. The project utilizes a three-tiered transformation model for resource transition: (i) the system level, which analyzes the carbon value network; (ii) the pilot level, which examines use cases within specific areas; and (iii) the scaling level, which validates and scales use cases to achieve nationwide effects. Following the analysis of carbon flows, interactions, and stakeholders, the transition from the system to the pilot level involves developing solutions in focus areas such as circular production processes for CO₂ utilization, advanced recycling for carbon-containing waste and residues, circular business models, and digital tools. Each focus area develops and pilots 3–5 use cases: include carbon capture and utilization of biogenic CO₂, recycling pathways for plastic wastes, scalable reuse concepts for packaging materials, and digital decision-support tools that optimize material flows and infrastructure usage in the value chain. Technological development is integrated with organizational, regulatory, and social factors, utilizing input-output models, pilot facilities, AI-supported decision tools, and CCU infrastructure models. Participatory formats ensure the integration of acceptance, user behavior, and market dynamics. Expected outcomes include mapping Austria’s carbon flows, pilot value chains, reuse models, AI-driven decision support, and an integrated evaluation framework that links ecological, economic, and social effects. ReTraCC provides recommendations on regulation, business models, infrastructure, and governance, establishing the foundation for a circular carbon economy that reduces fossil dependencies, enhances regional value creation, and systematically embeds sustainable resource transformation.