This deliverable is the outcome of Task 1.1, Theoretical and Conceptual Framework, within
the FABRIX project’s Work Package 1, Theory and Methodology. The document lays out a
comprehensive framework to guide research across the project, which aims to establish
sustainable, regenerative textile and clothing (T&C) ecosystems through local, circular
manufacturing systems in urban areas. By integrating spatial sciences, industrial symbiosis,
and economic geography, FABRIX addresses the fragmented nature of current urban
manufacturing practices and seeks to bridge gaps between economic networks and spatial
environments.

At its core, FABRIX emphasizes the dual concepts of ‘network of spaces’ and ‘space of
networks’ to explore how urban planning and economic systems can mutually support the
shift towards circular and regenerative practices in the T&C sector. The analytical focus is
on rethinking the spatial and network relationships that structure urban manufacturing,
with an emphasis on creating sustainable frameworks that can be scaled across European
cities. The project’s evaluative dimension will assess interventions in urban manufacturing
spaces, identifying spatial configurations that promote or hinder circularity.

Central to the instrumental dimension of FABRIX is the development of the MANTEL
platform, a digital platform of tools that enhances local stakeholders’ capacity to manage
and improve value chains along circular and regenerative pathways. MANTEL targets
facilitators, businesses, and public authorities, equipping them with tools to implement
circular production and foster socioeconomic resilience.@en

Deliverable 1.2, part of WP1 ‘Theory and Methodology’, outlines the methodologies
developed and used for the FABRIX project, which aims to foster the creation of circular
and regenerative textile and clothing (T&C) ecosystems in urban environments. This
document is a continuation of the theoretical and conceptual framework laid out in
Deliverable 1.1, building a bridge from theory to practice. The FABRIX methodology is
designed to integrate spatial design, industrial symbiosis, and value chain analysis to
support the development of localized, circular manufacturing systems.

At the core of the methodology is the exploration of two interrelated concepts: the "space
of network(s)" and the "network of space(s)." These concepts guide FABRIX in addressing
the complex relationships between spatial and economic factors in urban manufacturing.
The project examines how these systems interact and how they can be optimized to
support circular and regenerative production processes, particularly in the cities of Athens
and Rotterdam. Through this approach, FABRIX aims to uncover key insights about how
networks of actors, resources, and institutions can drive local innovation while responding
to global challenges.

The methodology is operationalized through several key stages. These include the
mapping and scoping of existing T&C ecosystems, a visualization methodology that
combines topological and spatial data, and the development of a relational database to
analyse the interaction between various actors and their relationships. Additionally,
interviews with stakeholders—government officials, facilitators, and businesses—will
provide qualitative insights that inform the development of the MANTEL platform, a
digital platform of tools designed to support and guide local value chains by enhancing
collaboration and problem-solving capabilities for facilitators and public and private policy
makers.

FABRIX’s methodological approach emphasizes a co-creation process, with ongoing
interaction and feedback loops between the research team and local stakeholders.
Through open calls, financial support, and workshops, the project will directly engage
facilitators and businesses, empowering them to adopt circular practices and build
collaborative networks. This participatory approach ensures that the solutions developed
are not only theoretically sound but also practically viable in real-world settings.@en