The project “Global dissemination of the Nordic model for biogas solutions”, referred to as IP4, aimed to create a decision-making guide for companies, municipalities, and researchers interested in internationalization of biogas solutions and create a platform for dialogue and sharing experiences. The project was operationalized through workshops, presentations by companies and researchers, focusing on the adaptability and sustainability of the Nordic Biogas Model (NBM) in international contexts. Three themes have been in focus and learning outcomes are summarized under each theme.

Theme1: Conditions for successful adaptation of NBM

Successful adaptation of the NBM internationally depends on context-specific factors, shaped by the local needs and socioeconomic conditions of the target country. The adaptation process is typically stepwise and gradual, with progress occurring incrementally in areas like policy, regulation, and technological advancement. It is also a reciprocal process, where mutual learning between providers and adopters is critical, supported by early-stage assessments to determine adopter readiness and key preconditions.

Theme2: Sustainability implications of adapting NBM

The NBM presents significant sustainability benefits through multi-valorisation, enabling value creation from biogas production, nutrient recycling, and system synergies such as industrial and urban symbiosis. However, the realization of these benefits depends on the local context, including effective policies and regulatory incentives (e.g., policies that discourage landfilling, or promote waste valorisation).

Theme3: Lessons from international adaptation of NBM

International experiences on adaptation of biogas solutions highlight that systems that fit and confirm to existing practices (e.g., landfilling organic waste with gas capture), offer some benefits with minimal changes in the sociotechnical system. In contrast, more systemic adaptations that are closer to NBM, provide broader and more lasting benefits that take time and requires structural adjustments.

In summary, considering Themes 1–3, the successful adoption of the NBM in international markets requires a strategic and context-specific approach. It is crucial to clearly communicate the diverse sustainability benefits of the NBM early in the process, preventing a narrow focus on short-term gains. Also, technology providers need to adopt a systematic approach for assessing risks and opportunities at the early stages, considering the context-specific and diverse nature of international markets. Both adopters and providers should recognize that adapting the NBM involves navigating a complex landscape with coordination among stakeholders across sectors, each with its own regulations and market conditions. Thus, it is a gradual and time-consuming process.