PRO CIVIS on Bridging Data Gaps and Driving Sustainable Humanitarian Solutions
Bio4HUMAN consortium partner PRO CIVIS play a key role in addressing the challenge of solid waste management in humanitarian settings as they led the first round of scoping of bio-based solutions, mapping existing value chains, and identifying critical gaps in humanitarian solid waste management systems. Currently, the PRO CIVIS team also leads the development and coordination of the SWOT analysis, establishing standardized templates for partners and overseeing the synthesis of their findings into a strategic report focused on long-term impact and replication.
In this interview, we speak with Damian Kuznowicz from PRO CIVIS about their approach to redefining the scope of the bioeconomy for humanitarian action, the key solid waste management gaps identified in the Humanitarian Supply Chain, and how strategic tools such as SWOT analysis can support more informed decision-making for humanitarian actors and policymakers.
What role does PRO CIVIS play within the Bio4HUMAN project?
Damian: Firstly, we bring the knowledge on circular bioeconomy and relevant sectors in this regard. We led the activity of mapping the bio-based solutions that potentially could be implemented by humanitarian actions. Afterwards, using our know-how on data analysis we gather relevant information in order to develop Gap Analysis on the supply chains in humanitarian actions. At the moment we are developing SWOT analysis, based on the work done in previous work packages and deliverables. In a nut shell, we synthesize gathered knowledge and data into operatable decision making documents and policy briefs. Of course we also support communication and dissemination effort of the consortium.
Your work in the project began by redefining the scope of the bioeconomy for humanitarian action. Why was it important to revisit existing bioeconomy definitions and frameworks before starting the scoping exercise?
Damian: First of all, it must be stated that there is a great variety of bio – related terms in the official publications of the EU, in the scientific literature and in the praxis of business and social activities. The most important terms for presenting and understanding the bioeconomy, with its cross – cutting nature and the development potential are: bio – based products, bio – based processes, bio – based solutions, bio – based systems, bio – based technologies, bio – based innovations and bio – based innovative solutions. There was definitely the need to try to define the scope for the terms most important for the perspective of Bio4HUMAN. There are definitions of bioeconomy highlighting different substantive aspects. Moreover there are three distinct visions for the bioeconomy – biotechnology, bioresources, and bioecology. Then when it comes to bio-based products there is also the variety within the scope of the European specifications. Some bio-based products require only 25 % bio-based content or do not set at all a minimum requirement of bio – based content, meaning that even lower proportions of bio-based content are acceptable according to standards and certificates. And adding to this are the much needed definitions of “bio-based technologies”, in particular “environmental biotechnology”, which were of importance for the Bio4HUMAN scooping activities. There are of course the common substantive areas for the paradigms of the bioeconomy and circular economy, as the bioeconomy can contribute in several ways to the circular economy, especially in the Project’s relevant topics connected to the waste management.
A key outcome of your work was the identification of supply chain and waste management innovation gaps in the Humanitarian Supply Chain. From PRO CIVIS’s perspective, where do the most critical gaps lie when it comes to applying bio-based solutions in humanitarian solid waste management?
Damian: From our point of view, one of the most critical gaps is the fact that solid waste management in the humanitarian supply chain is handled reactively and not strategically. A primary barrier is the deficiency of reliable data on solid waste combined with a prioritization of delivery speed over sustainability, which frequently pushes environmental aspects to the background. The greatest potential for systemic change lies in the planning and procurement stages. These phases do not generate large volumes of waste themselves, but they affect the waste footprint throughout the entire product life cycle. At the moment, there is a lack of systemic cross-functional collaboration and large-scale deployment of bio-based solutions which often face challenges such as logistical gaps, strict regulations, and lack of infrastructure in crisis-affected regions. There are also critical gaps related to limited funds, staff shortages, and low awareness in target communities. However, I have to highlight that there is huge potential for the implementation in bio-based solutions in the humanitarian settings, especially South Sudan and DRC, so the two strategic locations for our project.
At the moment, you are in the middle of a high-level SWOT analysis across ten areas of importance that determine the successful and long-term development of the bio-sector outcomes supporting the humanitarian actions. How and why will this analysis help move from identifying gaps in the Humanitarian Supply Chain to defining practical actions and priorities for the future that will help to accelerate the transition towards a sustainable, regenerative, inclusive, just and clean circular economy and bioeconomy?
Damian: Our multi-factor SWOT analysis will serve as a strategic bridge, translating the previously identified gaps into a structured set of recommendations feeding the roadmap for implementation. By evaluating ten critical areas of importance, so for instance technical feasibility or to social inclusivity, we are able to move beyond a simple list of challenges. This approach allows us to identify not only the barriers but also the existing strengths and opportunities within the humanitarian sector that can be leveraged.
How do the findings from scoping excercise and the SWOT analysis feed into the replication roadmap and support decision-making for humanitarian actors and policymakers when it comes to navigating solid waste management?
Damian: The findings from the scoping exercise and SWOT analysis serve as the foundational evidence base for the replication roadmap. Firstly, by harmonizing the complex landscape of bio-based terminology, we provide policymakers and other types of stakeholders with a framework for decision-making. These insights feed into the roadmap by shifting the focus toward the early stages of the supply chain, such as planning and procurement, where the long-term waste footprint is actually determined. Furthermore, by identifying the high implementation potential in strategic locations like South Sudan and the DRC, we ensure the roadmap is not just a theoretical exercise but a practical guide tailored to the specific infrastructure and logistical realities of humanitarian settings.
Looking ahead, what is the most important insight from your work in Bio4HUMAN so far that you would like future projects at the intersection of bioeconomy and humanitarian action to build upon?
Damian: The most significant takeaway for me is the fact that the humanitarian sector has very often untapped potential for the implementation of novel bio-based solutions. We must remember about the extreme challenges of operating in active crisis zones and conflict-affected regions, but these settings often possess a biological resources that are foundational to bio-based products and services. Future projects should focus on bridging the systemic gaps we have identified to unlock this potential. The transformative perspective to humanitarian action would be very necessary. Shifting the focus from short-term aid to long-term prosperity. Also, by empowering local communities and businesses to utilize their own bio-resources, we can foster a new chapter of sustainable development and economic resilience in even the most challenging environments.
Bio:
The Foundation for Education and Social Dialogue PRO CIVIS was established in Kielce, Poland in February 2008. The Foundation is dedicated to fostering social dialogue and regional growth through strategic initiatives in research, development, and innovation-driven entrepreneurship. Since 2011, PRO CIVIS has been focusing on green economy issues such as circular economy, sustainable development, renewable energy sources, ecological innovation and territorial ecology.
On their own initiative, PRO CIVIS has worked with local Polish humanitarian aid organisations such as Caritas of Kielce Diocese, Association for Integration and Development (SIR).