A Digital Living Laboratory Approach to Determine Appropriate Key Performance Indicators for Advancing Needs of Bioeconomy Sector Using a Peatland-Based Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture Demonstration Site—A Perspective

Qian Wang; Yuansong Qiao; Antoine Fort; Emer A. O’Neil; Damien Toner; Eoghan Clifford; Bernardete Rodrigues; Neil J. Rowan

doi:10.53941/eesus.2026.100007

Abstract

Developing the bioeconomy is important for resource management, food security and to protect our fragile environment. Critical to meeting emerging circular ambitions is the effective demonstration of viable biobased products at scale for appropriate business models and to mitigate risk. This case study addresses the use of digital twins (DTs) to support development of a novel integrated-multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) demonstration site in the Irish peatlands for various needs using a living laboratory concept. It highlights the role of harnessing cross-cutting multi-actors for advancing DTs across this IMTA site such as using an integrated Penta Helix hub framework that intimates key measurement and performance indicators for the bioeconomy sector. Combinational use of such digital tools will advance eco-innovation along with linked educational and societal needs from a bottom-up user perspective that will commensurately tailor top-down local and regional policies with a global orientation. Clustering and connecting bioeconomy demonstration activities using DTs will potentially meet expectations for real time diversification and added value that will inform regional resilience, competitiveness and job creations.

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