The decarbonization of energy-intensive industries requires a shift from isolated carbon capture projects to fully integrated CO₂ management systems. This contribution explores how industrial clusters can evolve into scalable CO₂ hubs, enabling efficient carbon capture, transport, utilization, and storage (CCUS) at system level.

Using the Port of Antwerp-Bruges as a reference case, my topic highlights the role of shared, open-access infrastructure—including pipeline backbones, liquefaction facilities, and export terminals—in aggregating CO₂ flows from multiple emitters. Such infrastructure enables economies of scale, enhances flexibility, and supports phased development of carbon management solutions. In parallel, the availability of multiple transport and storage pathways, including offshore sequestration and maritime export, ensures resilience and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market environment.

Beyond storage, the integration of CO₂ into emerging hydrogen and e-fuels value chains is examined, positioning carbon as a strategic feedstock for synthetic fuels and circular chemical production. This systemic approach transforms CO₂ from a liability into a resource, supporting both climate neutrality and industrial competitiveness.

Our findings demonstrate that cross-sector collaboration and infrastructure-driven integration are critical to unlocking large-scale CO₂ value chains in Europe and beyond.