NENUPHAR D4.2. Definition of current regulatory instruments and competencies of each demo case

This document represents Deliverable 4.2 “Definition of current regulatory instruments and competencies of each demo case”. This task is included in the WP4 of the project (Assessment of regulatory and economic instruments) and contributes to establish a framework of regulatory and economic instruments for the demosites within the project.In particular, Task 4.2 has addressed the identification and assessment of national and regional legislation to ensure that demosites can meet the most relevant requirements applicable to each of them. To this end, an identification of national and regional legislation has been carried out by the partners involved in demosites and replicators, and a subsequent assessment to identify the legal requirements applicable to each demosite, as well as the barriers and opportunities.This assessment has been complemented by three other activities related to legislation: a public questionnaire on regulatory barriers, a workshop with external stakeholders and a study of other similar projects that addressed legislative barriers.After addressing the different approaches, it has been found that there are some topics that may be more problematic when working with nutrient recovery, such as restrictions related to fertilisation in areas classified as vulnerable zones, as well as other requirements derived from the quality of water bodies, the application of some residues to the soil or the difference between requirements for organic and inorganic fertilisers, among others. In some regions, the absence of regional legislation adds to these challenges by limiting the ability to adapt policies to local needs and reducing the overall effectiveness of nutrient recovery initiatives. The detection of regulatory obstacles is also addressed in the questionnaire and workshop sections, as well as in the study of other similar projects.Despite these barriers, the analysis also revealed significant opportunities to enhance nutrient recovery. National strategies that promote technological innovation, such as those focusing on bioeconomy, provide a foundation for creating markets for recycled fertilisers. Additionally, greater collaboration between the public and private sectors, along with the development of research programs and training, can improve resource management.To fully realise these opportunities, a more flexible regulatory framework that allows for regional adaptations is necessary. Ensuring the proper transposition of European regulations at both national and regional levels will be essential to consolidating a more sustainable and efficient resource management model across Europe, moving towards a circular economy that benefits all sectors.