THE CEBM SERVICE CATALOGUE: A PRACTICAL GATEWAY TO CIRCULAR ECONOMY SOLUTIONS

To support the shift toward a circular economy across the Danube region, the DECIDE project has developed the Circular Economy Service Catalogue. This dynamic online platform showcases real-world circular practices and connects users with tools, templates, and expert knowledge.

The Circular Economy Service Catalogue entry page, Copyright: Tamara Korovin, HSRT

Central Entry Point to the DECIDE Toolbox

This deliverable, officially titled D.1.2.7 Circular Economy Value Chain Service Catalogue, is designed as a central entry point to the broader DECIDE Toolbox. It was developed under the leadership of Reutlingen University (HSRT) in close collaboration with Targu Mures University (UMFTS) and its Alumni Association (AUPM), as well as with the help of all the other project partners, who played a vital role in shaping and developing the content.

The catalogue is a living, interactive resource including best practice cases for inspiration. It supports SMEs, public authorities, academia, and business support organisations in identifying, comparing, and applying circular economy strategies that align with their sector-specific and local needs.

Best Practice Cases for inspiration

The catalogue features circular economy business model cases from five key sectors defined by the DECIDE project: food, packaging, textiles, smart cities, and batteries.

Each example in the catalogue follows a standardised format to ensure consistency and usability. It includes a concise description of the business concept, a visual representation of the circular value chain, and a summary of the sustainability impact. The format also indicates the  maturity level of the solution (such as idea, prototype, or fully implemented), and provides information on the geographic location and relevant contact points. Where applicable, the showcased approaches are linked to the corresponding Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), helping users understand the broader impact of each initiative.

Cases are presented in the format that ensures usability and consistancy. Copyright: Tamara Korovin, HRST

User-Friendly Search Function

The cases can be searched by sector, circular strategy (such as reuse, refurbish, or repurpose), and thematic tags, making it easy for users to find what suits their needs.

The CEBM Service Catalogue is a versatile and user-oriented tool. SMEs can find inspiring and field-tested business model ideas to support their transition to circularity. Public authorities can explore policy-aligned solutions to shape supportive environments. Business support organisations can access practical tools and direct contacts to assist their clients better, while academics and researchers can study trends, compare models, and explore sustainability impacts.

Quality-Oriented Development Process

The catalogue was created in two phases:

• Design Phase – This included concept development, consultations with partners, and the creation of mock-ups based on stakeholder needs.

• Development Phase – The platform was technically implemented as part of the existing Smart City webpage, enhanced with new features and content tailored to circular economy objectives.

Best-practice entries were collected from project partners, tested, and refined to ensure clarity and usability. While some business models remain under NDA protection (Non-Disclosure Agreement), others are publicly accessible, with more to be added as approvals are secured and content is expanded.

Central Role in Structuring the DECIDE Toolbox

Beyond showcasing case studies, the CEBM Service Catalogue serves as a gateway to other key elements of the DECIDE Toolbox. It links users to tools for identifying circular potential, learning content, and workshop materials. A decision support feature is also in development to guide users to the most relevant tools based on their role, needs, and level of experience. Future updates will introduce so-called “pattern cases,” generalised models based on clusters of similar examples, along with downloadable templates and simulation tools to support the development and adaptation of users’ own circular business models.

The CEBM Service Catalogue plays a pivotal role in structuring and connecting the broader DECIDE Toolbox. As a digital entry point for SMEs, public authorities, academia, and business support organisations, it provides tailored access to knowledge on circular business models and helps users navigate project outcomes in a coherent and actionable way. By bridging theory and practice, the catalogue offers tangible examples and strategic links that support the scaling of circular innovation.

As the DECIDE project continues, the catalogue will remain a living platform—growing and evolving to support knowledge transfer, stakeholder collaboration, and the practical implementation of circular economy solutions across the Danube Region and beyond.

👉 Stay connected! For the latest news, tools, success stories, and upcoming events, follow the DECIDE project on our official website, and join the conversation on Facebook and LinkedIn. Let’s shape a circular future together in the Danube region!