Circular Valley 4Recycling
4Recycling is an innovation ecosystem that strives to build new solutions for enhanced recycling of plastics and to develop bio-based materials to replace plastics. The ecosystem is open for organisations interested in finding new business or in building new competences in plastics’ recycling and bio-based alternatives.
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Universities Aalto University
Aalto University is known for its multidisciplinary approach to science, tech, business, and art. It ranks 6th in art & design globally and in the top 100 for other subjects. Teaching, research, and art are conducted by six schools and their departments and units.
Image: Aalto University / Unto Rautio
Related cases
From new innovations to functional plastic substitutes
Companies ABB
ABB is a tech leader in automation and electrification for a sustainable future. Green Electrification 2035 initiative by ABB will facilitate rapid growth of renewable energy usage and help Finland achieve carbon-neutrality by 2035. Image: ABB
Facilitators Academy of Finland
The Academy of Finland is an expert organisation in science and research. They fund high-quality scientific research, provide expertise in science and science policy and strengthen the position of science and research. Image: Academy of Finland / Juho Karjalainen
Circular Valley 
Universities of Applied Sciences Arcada University of Applied Sciences
Arcada is a multi-disciplinary University of Applied Sciences with programs in Business, Energy tech, Health, Culture & media, and Healthcare. Research and lifelong learning are prioritized to create innovative solutions with societal impact. Image: Arcada
Circular Valley BATCircle 2.0
The BATCircle consortium aims at improving the manufacturing processes of mining, metals refining, and battery chemicals industries, and at increasing the recycling efficiency of lithium-ion batteries. The consortium is built on the principles of collaboration and joint research interests between companies and research organisations.
- Project partners: Aalto University, University of Oulu, University of Eastern Finland, Lappeenranta–Lahti University of Technology, Geological Survey of Finland GTK, Technical Research Center of Finland VTT
- Project time: 2021-2024
Circular Valley
Circular Valley 
Companies Borealis Polymers Oy
Borealis is a leading provider of polyolefins, base chemicals, and fertilisers, with over 900 employees in Finland. Its five production units at Kilpilahti produce plastics mainly used in pipes, steel pipe coating, packaging, and cables. Image: Borealis / Eeva Sumiloff
Facilitators Business Finland
Business Finland aids Finnish companies in global growth by encouraging collaboration between firms and research groups. They prioritize customer needs, seize opportunities from societal changes, and focus on sustainable development in their operations to meet the requirements of the Finnish economy. Image: Business Finland
Circular Valley CEGO – Circular Economy Goes East and West
The project Circular Economy Goes East and West aims to support and facilitate such systemic transformation of circular economy at Uusimaa Region, with such means as broad multi-actor collaboration, cocreation,and impartial coordination. The objective of the project is to facilitate and accelerate the realization of business opportunities in accordance with circular economy and the building up of a circular economy business ecosystem.
- Project partners: Laurea, Keuke Ltd, Posintra Ltd, Novago Ltd
- Projcet time: 1.6.2021-31.8.2023
Facilitators Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment
The Centres for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centres) are responsible for the regional implementation and development tasks of the central government. ELY Centres grant support from several European funds. Image: Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment
Circular Valley CIRCuIT – Circular Construction in Regenerative Cities
CIRCuIT (Circular Construction In Regenerative Cities) is an international project focusing on circular construction. The project aims to develop a set of replicable circular economy criteria for public tenders on construction.
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Circular Valley Circular Economy for a Shopping Center (Kiertotalousostoskeskus)
In the project, a functional, profitable and scalable operating model is developed for a circular economy shopping center. The idea of the operating model is that the products of the shopping center using new natural resources are recycled, renewed, made from recycled materials, can be rented or are suitable for shared use - but still stylish and of high quality.
- Project partners: Helsinki Metropolitan Area Reuse Centre Ltd, City of Helsinki, Helsinki Region Environmental Services HSY, Finnish Environment Agency Syke, Helsinki City Transport Authority HKL, City of Espoo, LAB Design Institute, Haaga-Helia, Aalto University, Nortecon, Mall of Tripla
- Project time: 1.8.2021-31.7.2023
Circular Valley Circular Green Blocks
In the project, sustainable solutions are tested and piloted to promote the sharing and circular economy together with housing associations and companies that support green growth. Experiments and pilots are related to, among other things, sustainable movement, shared use, yard improvement and urban farming, as well as circular economy-themed event production.
- Project partners: the Helsinki Region Environmental Services HSY, Forum Virium Helsinki, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences and Aalto University
- Project time: 1.9.2021–31.8.2023
Circular Valley Circulate Electronics
Circulte Electronics is a marketplace that supports the circular economy, where you can sell used devices and buy them refurbished. This marketplace is part of the CEDIM project (Circular Economy Digital Marketplace.)
- Project partners: Haaga-Helia, Metropolia, Fiare Solutions Oy
- Project time: 2022->
Facilitators CleverHealth Network
CleverHealth Network aims to improve healthcare for Finnish people and promote successful export products for companies by developing innovative treatment solutions. The ecosystem facilitates collaboration between companies and healthcare experts, utilizing HUS's health data and leading clinical expertise. HUS coordinates the network.
Facilitators Clic Innovation
CLIC Innovation Ltd is a non-profit organization creates industry-academia partnerships to tackle resource scarcity. Their focus is to accelerate commercialization of innovative solutions via research to demonstrations projects, covering a wide range of areas. Image: Clic Innovation
Circular Valley Closed Plastic Circle (Kaikki muovi kiertää)
The Closed Plastic Circle - from Pilots into Practice -project aims to increase plastic recycling in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area to 60–70% in the future, instead of the current 6%. In order to achieve the goal, measures are needed at all stages of the circulation, including product design, production and use.
- Project partners: City of Espoo, VTT, HSY, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, LAB University of Applied Sciences, Salpakierto Oy, Muovipoli Oy and Muoviyhdistys ry
- Project time: 1.10.2022–31.10.2024
Circular Valley CO2 DataHub project & ESG ecosystem
The project examines and develops methods to measure and calculate the carbon dioxide emissions generated by the delivery chains of the built environment, as well as to manage them based on reliable data. The research focuses on the management of both direct and indirect emissions.
- Project partners: Vastuu Group, VTT, Aalto, Sitowise & Platform of Trust
- Project time: 1/03/22 - 30/06/23
Circular Valley 
Universities of Applied Sciences Diaconia University of Applied Sciences
Diaconia University of Applied Sciences (Diak) prepares students for national and international roles in social and pastoral work. The study programmes cover the following fields: social work, health care, diaconal work and interpreting.
Image: Diaconia University of Applied Sciences
Circular Valley
Circular Valley
Circular Valley 
Facilitators Enter Espoo
Enter Espoo facilitates access to Espoo's innovation and travel ecosystems for companies, investors, visitors, and travel professionals. They find suitable services, startups, technologies, partners, and locations to support business goals. Image: Espoo Marketing Oy / dspmedia
Circular Valley
Circular Valley ExpandFibre Ecosystem
ExpandFibre is an R&D collaboration and an Ecosystem launched to accelerate the development of sustainable bioproducts. It focuses on upgrading pulp fibres, hemicellulose and lignin from renewable and sustainable sources of straw and northern wood into new bioproducts. Its ambition is to meet the growing demands for sustainable textile fibres and other added value biomaterials.
- Project partners: Fortum, Metsä Group
- Project time: 5/2022-8/2024
Related cases
ExpandFibre Ecosystem
Circular Valley 
Circular Valley FINIX – Towards sustainable textile systems
The Finix project brings together large and SME companies as well as startups in the textile and forest industry and in waste processing together with non-governmental organizations and decision-makers to co-develop a sustainable textile system based on cutting-edge research.
- Project partners: Finnish Environment Institute SYKE, Aalto Univeristy
- Project time: 2019-2025
Circular Valley FinnFiberColor
The goal of the project is to develop solutions for the challenges that man-made cellulose fiber (MMCF) technologies currently developed in Finland will face when they will be integrated into the textile chain. In the project, advanced analytical tools will be utilised to better understand how alternative biobased raw materials can be used for existing and new spinning technology.
- Project partners: Aalto University
- Project time: 01/02/2021-31/05/2023
Facilitators Finnish AI Region (FAIR)
FAIR, the Finnish AI Region, provides SMEs with easy access to AI, augmented reality, high-performance computing, and cybersecurity expertise. FAIR promotes AI adoption, supported by the European Commission, as one of the four EDIHs in Finland and part of a European innovation hub network. Image: FAIR
Research institutions Finnish Environment Institute (Syke)
Finnish Environment Institute (Syke) offers expertise on environmental concerns, including climate change, pollution, eutrophication, and biodiversity loss. The institute is overseen by the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Image: SYKE
Research institutions Finnish Food Safety Authority
The Finnish Food Safety Authority ensures safety and quality of food, plant and animal health, and related products in agriculture and forestry. It also manages EU funds for agricultural and rural development in Finland. Image: Finnish Food Safety Authority
Research institutions Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL)
The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) promotes the welfare, health, and safety of Finnish population through research, expert work, and developing the welfare society. They prevent illnesses and social problems while supporting the healthcare system. Image: THL
Research institutions Finnish Meteorological Institute
The Finnish Meteorological Institute conducts research on the atmosphere, seas, and near space, and provides weather, climate, air quality, and near space services for public safety, business, and citizens. It operates under the Ministry of Transport and Communications. Image: Finnish Meteorological Institute
Circular Valley 
Companies Fortum
Fortum is a sustainable energy company and a leading clean energy producer in Europe. Fortum and Metsä Group launched ExpandFibre, an R&D collaboration and ecosystem to fast-track sustainable bioproducts' development for a world where people, businesses, and nature thrive. Image: Fortum / Juha Ruokonen
Facilitators Forum Virium Helsinki
Forum Virium Helsinki is the City of Helsinki innovation company. They co-create urban futures with companies, universities, other public sector organizations and Helsinki residents. The mission is to make Helsinki the most functional smart city in the world. Image: Forum Virium Helsinki
Related cases
Automod – Robotics Innovations for Circular Economy
Circular Valley Gastro workshops
Gastro workshops is a two-year food tourism development project operating. The project contributes to the increase of entrepreneurs’ competence in responsible actions, e.g. as consuming local food and reducing wasted food.
- Project partners: Lomalaidun ry Association
- Project time: 1.8.2021-31.8.2023
Research institutions Geological Survey of Finland
The Geological Survey of Finland GTK produces impartial research and services in support of decision-making in industry, academia, and wider society to accelerate the transition to sustainable and carbon-neutral world. Image: GTK
Circular Valley
Facilitators Green Net Finland
Green Net Finland is a cleantech cluster developing smart and low-carbon urban environment. They bring together the expertise and resources of Finnish cleantech companies, scientific and educational institutions and public authorities.
Universities of Applied Sciences Haaga-Helia – Haaga Campus
Haaga-Helia is a strongly business-orientated university of applied sciences. Haaga-Helia's Haaga campus is called the Hospitality Campus.
Image: Haaga-Helia
Universities of Applied Sciences Haaga-Helia – Malmi Campus
Haaga-Helia is a business-focused university of applied sciences, with the Malmi campus offering Business Administration studies in Finnish. It caters to adult learners with evening and blended learning options, and the program has a strong emphasis on business. Image: Haaga-Helia
Universities of Applied Sciences Haaga-Helia – Pasila Campus
Haaga-Helia is a strongly business-orientated university of applied sciences. Its Pasila campus provides degree and specialisation studies, eMBA training, and customized education packages for domestic and international corporate clients. Image: Haaga-Helia
Related cases
Students from six European universities solved urban challenges in Helsinki
Universities of Applied Sciences Haaga-Helia – Porvoo Campus
Haaga-Helia is a strongly business-orientated university of applied sciences. The Porvoo Campus represents a new style in campus construction with its use of space to create an open environment for learning and sharing knowledge. Image: Haaga-Helia
Universities Hanken School of Economics
Hanken School of Economics is a leading university with 110 years of experience in research and education in economics and business administration. Hanken holds the three most prestigious accreditations for business schools, EQUIS, AACSB and AMBA, which only one percent of business schools worldwide have achieved. Image: Hanken School of Economics
Facilitators Health Capital Helsinki
The Helsinki Metropolitan health ecosystem is a collaborative network of healthcare, R&D, and companies, from innovative startups to multinational corporations. It supports the growth and development of the health ecosystem, startups, SMEs, international companies, and investors in the Helsinki Metropolitan area. Image: Health Capital Helsinki
Startup Hubs Health Incubator Helsinki
A comprehensive three-year incubator program, Health Incubator Helsinki targets research-based early-stage teams and startups operating in the health sector in Finland and abroad. Image: Health Incubator Helsinki
Circular Valley 
Facilitators Helsinki Think Company
Helsinki Think Company is a non-profit that supports students and researchers in developing innovative solutions to societal challenges through collaboration, workshops, and events. They provide co-working spaces and funding opportunities for selected projects. Image: Helsinki Think Company / Jonas Simberg
Research institutions Helsinki University Hospital
Helsinki University Hospital (HUS) is Finland's largest healthcare provider and second-largest employer, offering specialist medical care for rare and severe diseases, as well as collaborating with the University of Helsinki on research, education, and trials programs to develop new ways of identifying and treating diseases. Image: HUS
Circular Valley Helsinki-Uusimaa Circular Valley
The Helsinki-Uusimaa Circular Valley is a regional initiative striving for a carbon neutral Helsinki-Uusimaa region by 2030. The Valley is a community of experts, municipalities, companies, organisations and research institutes that form an innovation ecosystem. It acts as an accelerator for innovative solutions and pilots in areas like construction, food chains, textiles, plastics, and electronics. As a regional ecosystem, the Valley facilitates new business opportunities while building a good living environment for our citizens. We search, develop and share knowledge, knowhow, data, ideas, resources and networks.
- Project partners: Helsinki-Uusimaa Regional Council, CLIC Innovation
Facilitators Helsinki-Uusimaa Regional Council
Helsinki-Uusimaa Regional Council is a joint authority with 26 member municipalities, mandated by law and mainly funded by its members. The council focuses on regional and land-use planning, promoting local and regional interests, and articulating sustainable development goals and conditions.
Facilitators HEVi
HEVi is a government program in Finland that aims to strategically allocate public and private funding for research, development, and innovation. The program focuses on the three cities of Helsinki, Espoo, and Vantaa and seeks to create a large project portfolio for urban development and innovation activities from 2021 to 2027.
Research institutions HIIT
HIIT is a joint effort of Aalto University & University of Helsinki to fund and support information technology research. Computer Science researchers from both universities and Aalto's Information & Communications Engineering department form the research community. Image: HIIT
Research institutions HiLIFE
HiLIFE - Helsinki Institute of Life Science is one of the leading life science research institutes in the Nordics. It supports outstanding research and generation of innovations across the University’s campuses to create an attractive international environment where today’s grand challenges in health and environment are solved together. Image: HiLIFE
Circular Valley
Universities of Applied Sciences Humak – Helsinki Campus
Humak is a national university of applied sciences that operates almost everywhere in Finland. The Helsinki campus is home not only to education programs in community education and interpreter training but also to a significant part of Humak's administration and services, including the office of the student union HUMAKO.
Universities of Applied Sciences Humak – Kauniainen Campus
The cultural production campus in Kauniainen is located in the middle of Espoo - close to Helsinki and Vantaa. Humak students go for exchange studies and internships, for example, to the Music Industry Management program at Utrecht University or the Arts Management program at Fachhochschule Potsdam (Berlin).
Facilitators iCAN – Digital Precision Cancer Medicine
iCAN is a national research flagship providing solutions to the cancer challenge through a discovery and innovation cluster at the interface of precision cancer medicine and digital health. Image: iCAN
Research institutions ICOS
ICOS is a European-wide research infrastructure that produces standardized data on greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere and carbon fluxes between the atmosphere, the earth, and oceans. The data is used by scientists and decision-makers to predict and mitigate climate change, and is based on measurements from over 168 stations across 16 European countries. Image: ICOS
Research institutions INAR
The Institute for Atmospheric and Earth System Research (INAR) at the University of Helsinki is a multi-disciplinary research unit focused on atmospheric and Earth system science. Its goal is to contribute scientific results to environmental and climate policy on a national and international level. Image: INAR
Circular Valley
Circular Valley
Circular Valley Kelmuvex
Kelmuvex project targets a cost-efficient holistic solution for plastic waste discharged into the environment, including tracking and identification, recovery and valorisation. The main goal of the project is to prepare a complete solution for plastic waste released into the environment, which includes the entire value chain.
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Circular Valley Keru community fridge
The community fridge is a space and community open to everyone. It is available to anyone who wants to share and/or collect surplus food. The aim is to reduce food waste and to support sustainable food culture. The community fridge offers an easy way to take part in solving global climate and food waste issues.
- Project time: Activities have continued after the pilot period ended in 2020
- Project partners: Keru community fridge association
Circular Valley 
Development Companies Keuke
Keuke is a local development company that helps companies in Central Uusimaa to develop and grow in the areas of Järvenpää, Karkkila, Kerava, Nurmijärvi, Pornainen, Sipoo and Tuusula. Image: Keuke
Facilitators KIRAHub
KIRAHub is a multifaceted and transparent ecosystem of the real estate and construction industry. Their vision is to make Finland the forerunner in the sustainable digitalization of the built environment. Image: KIRAHub
Circular Valley KIRPEÄ – business from circular economy in SMEs
The project creates an operating model for the development of a circular economy, which helps companies develop their own operations and grow their business according to circular economy models in cooperation with local and municipal operators.
- Project partners: Sykli Environmental College
- Project time: 12/2022–5/2024
Companies Kone
KONE is a global leader in elevators, escalators, and building doors. With the Flow of Urban Life ecosystem, co-funded by Business Finland's Veturi initiative, they aim to develop sustainable solutions for urbanization and climate change challenges for the next billion people moving into cities by 2030. Image: Aleksi Koskinen, Kone
Research institutions Kumpula Business Labs
Kumpula Business Labs (KBL) is an entrepreneurship hub located in Helsinki, Finland, that supports the creation and growth of startup companies. It is a joint initiative of Aalto University, the University of Helsinki, and the City of Helsinki, with the aim of combining academic research with business development. Image: Kumpula Business Labs
Circular Valley
Circular Valley 
Universities of Applied Sciences Laurea – Hyvinkää Campus
Laurea integrates research, development, and innovation as part of its university teaching. Hyvinkää campus features innovative learning environments, including a simulated hospital with the latest wireless simulator technology for patient care education. Image: Laurea
Universities of Applied Sciences Laurea – Leppävaara Campus
Laurea integrates research, development, and innovation into its teaching, offering Bachelor's degrees in programs including Business Management, Hospitality Management, Restaurant Entrepreneurship, Business Information Technology, and Security Management. Image: Laurea
Universities of Applied Sciences Laurea – Lohja Campus
Laurea University of Applied Sciences has a strong model for LbD, or Learning by Developing. At Laurea's Lohja campus, the students study to become a nurse, social worker, or business graduate. Image: Laurea
Universities of Applied Sciences Laurea – Otaniemi Campus
Laurea University of Applied Sciences has a strong model for LbD, or Learning by Developing. The Otaniemi Campus provides degree programs in social services, health care, physical education, and business management, leading to graduation as a Bachelor in various fields such as health care, social services, nursing, and business management. Image: Laurea
Universities of Applied Sciences Laurea – Porvoo Campus
Laurea University of Applied Sciences has a strong model for LbD, or Learning by Developing. The Porvoo Campus offers a nursing program that incorporates ample practical experience in social services and healthcare environments as well as workplace development projects. Image: Laurea
Universities of Applied Sciences Laurea – Tikkurila Campus
Laurea University of Applied Sciences has a strong model for LbD, or Learning by Developing. The campus has many national and international projects, as well as strong learning, and development environments with partnership networks. These include the enterprise cluster CIDe Cluster and the POKE Living Lab for substance abuse treatment. Image: Laurea
Circular Valley 
Facilitators Limowa Logistics Cluster
The LIMOWA Logistics Cluster is a Finnish network association to develop and support intelligent logistics solutions and boost the competitiveness of Finnish companies. LIMOWA works close to its member organizations supporting their business and export activities. Image: LIMOWA
Circular Valley 
Facilitators Location Innovation Hub
Location Innovation Hub provides coaching for European start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and public administration organizations. As a client, you will receive support in developing your business, exploiting future technologies, and finding funding opportunities.
Circular Valley
Circular Valley 
Startup Hubs Maria 01
Maria 01 is a leading Nordic startup campus, aiming to be Europe's most impactful. It fosters a dynamic community of tech startups, venture capitalists, and enterprises, offering a supportive space for Finnish startups to experiment, learn, and grow. Image: Tapio Auvinen
Universities of Applied Sciences Metropolia – Arabia Campus
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, Finland’s largest university of applied sciences, educates future professionals in the fields of Business, Culture, Health Care and Social Services, and Technology. Metropolia's all operations of Culture and Arts are centralized in Arabia, Helsinki. Image: HeliFoto Oy
Universities of Applied Sciences Metropolia – Karamalmi Campus
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, Finland’s largest university of applied sciences, educates future professionals in the fields of Business, Culture, Health Care and Social Services, and Technology. Metropolia's new Developer Campus for Smart Solutions in Karamalmi creates solutions for tomorrow with the help of smart technologies and process leadership. Image: HeliFoto Oy
Universities of Applied Sciences Metropolia – Myllypuro Campus
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences is Finland's largest university for Business, Culture, Health Care and Social Services, and Technology. Myllypuro Campus promotes well-being, a healthy future, and fosters new connections. Image: HeliFoto Oy
Universities of Applied Sciences Metropolia – Myyrmäki Campus
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, Finland’s largest university of applied sciences, educates future professionals in the fields of Business, Culture, Health Care and Social Services, and Technology. Metropolia’s Myyrmäki campus in Vantaa is where Industrial Technology meets International Business. Image: Martin Sommerschield
Companies Metsä Group
Metsä Group is a Finnish forest industry group that operates in international markets. They use the best renewable raw material in the world responsibly and efficiently. ExpandFibre is an R&D collaboration and an Ecosystem launched by Fortum and Metsä Group to accelerate the development of sustainable bioproducts. Image: Metsä Group
Facilitators Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment of Finland
The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment (MEAE) is part of the Government. MEAE creates the conditions for economically, socially and ecologically sustainable growth. Image: Marja Väänänen
Facilitators MyData
MyData is a human-centric approach to personal data management, which combines industry need for data with digital human rights. MyData is an alternative vision which offers guiding technical principles for how we, as individuals, can have more control over the data trails we leave behind in our everyday actions. Image: MyData
Related cases
Thanks to MyData, residents can get proactive services
Research institutions Natural Resources Institute Finland
The Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research organisation operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Finland. Luke’s task is to promote competitive business based on the sustainable use of renewable natural resources, as well as wellbeing and the vitality of the countryside. Image: Natural Resources Institute Finland
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Putin’s war a wake-up call for regenerative farming
Circular Valley 
Companies Neste
Neste is the world’s leading producer of sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel and renewable feedstock solutions for various polymers and chemicals industry uses. Neste Veturi program develops sustainable fuels and chemicals from renewable and recycled raw materials that have been difficult to utilize so far to decrease the use of crude oil. Image: Espoo headquarters, Neste
Companies Neste – Porvoo Refinery
Neste produces sustainable aviation fuel, renewable diesel, and feedstock solutions for industries. They aim to achieve carbon-neutral production by 2035 and make their Porvoo refinery in Finland the most sustainable in Europe by 2030. Additionally, they focus on developing chemical recycling technologies. Image: Porvoo refinery in Finland, Neste
Circular Valley New Cotton Project
New Cotton project develops and tests technologies and circular economy models for recycling textiles and utilizing textile waste. Twelve players in the fashion and textile industries are breaking new ground by demonstrating an entirely circular model for commercial garment production.
- Project partners: South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences XAMK, Infinited Fiber Company, Aalto University, adidas, Fashion for Good, Frankenhuis, H&M Group, Inovafil, Kipas Textiles, REvolve Waste, RISE, Tekstina
- Project time: 10/2020-9/2023
Companies Nokia
Nokia is a B2B technology innovation leader in networking, bringing together the world's people, machines and devices to realize the potential of digital in every industry. Nokia's Veturi Program COMPETITIVE EDGE aims to enhance the global market position of the Finnish edge ecosystem, foster innovation, and promote collaboration with ecosystem partners and Business Finland. Image: Nokia
Development Companies Novago – Lohja
Novago Yrityskehitys Oy is a Western Uusimaa-based expert in entrepreneurship and economic development. It provides advice on establishment, business development, internationalization, financing, and unexpected challenges for both existing and aspiring entrepreneurs in the region. Image: Novago
Development Companies Novago – Raasepori
Novago Yrityskehitys Oy is a Western Uusimaa-based expert in entrepreneurship and economic development. It provides advice on establishment, business development, internationalization, financing, and unexpected challenges for both existing and aspiring entrepreneurs in the region. Image: Novago
Universities of Applied Sciences Novia University of Applied Sciences
Novia is a dynamic, international University of Applied Sciences (UAS) with high-quality education, research and development and innovation activity supporting working life. Novia is a leading actor in continuous learning. Raasepori Campus offers Bachelor's Degree studies in the areas of engineering and natural resources. Image: Novia
Circular Valley
Circular Valley
Circular Valley
Circular Valley
Companies Picosun
Picosun is semiconductor equipment company and an innovator in atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology, primarily for specialty semiconductors. The "Chip Zero" program is a four-year initiative aimed at uniting semiconductor companies to develop chips with zero lifetime emissions.
Circular Valley Plastics Circularity
The Plastics Circularity project is based on sustainability and it deals with the following themes: 1. Regulations and standards, 2. Design for Circularity, 3. Data and traceability, 4. Optimization and validation of the use of recycled plastics
- Project partners: CLIC Innovation
- Project time: 2023->
Circular Valley PlastLIFE SIP – Sustainable circular economy of plastics
The project promotes the implementation of Finland's plastic road map. The goal is a sustainable circular economy of plastics by 2035. Demonstrations, experiments, research, development, product design, analysis, communication and campaigning are carried out in the project.
- Project partners: Finnish Environment Institute SYKE
- Project time: 2023-2029
Circular Valley PlastPyro
The pilot platform for pyrolytic recycling of plastic -PlastPyro project develops functional solutions for the chemical recycling of plastic. The goal of the project is to further develop VTT Bioruukki's innovation platform and convert the current biomass pyrolysis pilot equipment into one suitable for the pyrolysis of mixed plastic waste.
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Circular Valley PlastPyro INVEST
PlastPyro INVEST is an investment project of a pilot platform for pyrolytic recycling of plastic. The goal of the project is to make the necessary equipment changes to the current pyrolysis technology pilot intended for biomass processing, so that it would be versatile for pyrolysis piloting of various plastic wastes. The project is related to the development project of PlastPyro, a pilot platform for plastic pyrolytic recycling.
- Project partners: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd
- Project time: 1.1.2022-31.8.2023
Development Companies Posintra
Posintra is a local development company in Eastern Uusimaa that provides support and resources for the growth and wellbeing of local businesses and the area as a whole. Their focus is on strengthening the competitiveness of companies in the region and providing assistance to those looking to establish or relocate their business to the area. Image: Posintra
Circular Valley Pure Waste
Textiles
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Circular Valley Romukeskus Oy
E-waste. Romukeskus Oy is a wholesale company that operates as a common purchasing, support, and sales entity for scrap and recycled raw material businesses.
Circular Valley
Circular Valley
Circular Valley SERTY
E-waste. SERTY (SER-Tuottajayhteisö ry) is a producer association of importers and manufacturers of electrical and electronic equipment
Circular Valley
Circular Valley
Facilitators SPARK Finland
Spark Finland is a startup accelerator and incubator focused on advancing the health and life sciences field by bringing academic and clinical discoveries closer to practical, commercially viable solutions. The organization provides resources and support for early-stage startups, helping them to grow and develop their businesses. SPARK works closely with universities, research institutions, and hospitals.
Circular Valley SPARKS project
The goal of the project is to develop the operating environment of circular economy SMEs, to increase the volume of use of recycled materials by responding to the material needs of SMEs, and to support SMEs in the development of profitable business.
- Project partners: Helsinki Metropolitan Area Reuse Centre
- Project time: 31.5.2021 -30.6.2023
Circular Valley 
Startup Hubs Startup Foundation
Startup Foundation's mission is to create more entrepreneurs, new companies, growth and internationalization, as well as supporting and promoting the startup mentality. Image: Startup Foundation
Circular Valley 
Development Companies Techvilla
Techvilla helps SMEs in the Uusimaa region to grow, develop and internationalize. Their customers are growth companies and businesses in the industrial and technology sectors. Image: Techvilla
Circular Valley 
Startup Hubs Terkko Health Hub
Terkko Health Hub is a startup community, a co-working space and an event venue focusing on health and life sciences. They are located in the heart of Helsinki’s medical campus and provide various services, events and programmes for our community in collaboration with local and global partners. Image: Terkko Health Hub
Circular Valley 
Research institutions The Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra
Sitra is an accountable and independent future-oriented fund that is influential nationally and internationally and acts as a think tank, promoter of experiments and operating models and a catalyst for co-operation. Image: SITRA
Circular Valley The Future of Nonwovens
The Future of Nonwovens project aims to bring sustainable manufacturing within the nonwoven value chain. FoN supports the ExpandFibre mission, which includes establishing a Center of Excellence to enhance collaboration between partners within the nonwovens value chain.
- Project partnes: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, VTT, Infinited Fiber Company, Fortum, Metsä Spring, Infinited Fiber Company, UPM, CH-Polymers, Suominen, Anpap, Valmet
- Project time: 01/02/2021 - 31/05/2023
Universities The University of the Arts Helsinki
The University of the Arts Helsinki provides the highest level of education in music, fine arts, theatre and dance. The university was established in 2013, when the Academy of Fine Arts, Sibelius Academy and Theatre Academy were merged. Image: Tuomas Uusheimo
Companies Tietoevry
Tietoevry's area of expertise includes providing cloud services, IT services, and systems development and maintenance to its clients across various industries globally, including healthcare, banking, and forestry. The mission of the Tietoevry Veturi programme is to develop affordable, accessible and trusted digital services for citizens. Image: Tietoevry
Circular Valley 
Circular Valley TREASoURcE project
TREASoURcE aims to initiate systemic change by developing systemic circular economy solutions in cities and regions for currently underutilised or unused plastic waste, end-of-life electric vehicle batteries and bio-based waste and side streams. Implementing these solutions together with companies, societies (including citizens, consumers, communities and regional actors) and experts in the field is expected to significantly increase product and material circulation.
- Project partners: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd,
- Project time: 1.6.2022–31.5.2025
Universities University of Helsinki – City Centre
The University of Helsinki's City Centre Campus is its largest, hosting approximately 17,000 students across multiple faculties including Educational Sciences, Arts, Theology, Law, Social Sciences, and the Swedish School of Social Science. Image: University of Helsinki / Veikko Somerpuro
Universities University of Helsinki – Kumpula Campus
The University of Helsinki's Kumpula campus is home to a number of research institutes, including the Institute for Molecular Sciences, the Institute for Astronomy, and the Institute for Biotechnology.
Image: University of Helsinki / Linda Tammisto
Universities University of Helsinki – Meilahti Campus
Meilahti Campus is a top medical campus in Europe that combines leading research, teaching, and medical care. It involves close collaboration between the University of Helsinki's Faculty of Medicine, the Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE), and the Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa. Image: University of Helsinki / Veikko Somerpuro
Universities University of Helsinki – Viikki Campus
The Viikki Campus of the University of Helsinki is a significant research center, comprising various faculties and institutes such as Agriculture and Forestry, Biological and Environmental Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, and Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science. Image: University of Helsinki / Veikko Somerpuro
Circular Valley Urban&Local – Sustainable food ecosystem of the future
In the Urban & Local project, an operator ecosystem is created that promotes research and business in the local food and restaurant industry in the capital region.
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Circular Valley
Circular Valley 
Companies Valmet
Valmet is a leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation, and services for the pulp, paper, and energy industries. Their automation systems and flow control solutions enable them to serve an even wider base of process industries. Beyond Circularity is Valmet’s R&D program and ecosystem to transform waste and emissions into valuable resources for sustainable growth and accelerating the green transition. Image: Valmet Oyj
Circular Valley 
Startup Hubs Viikki Food Design Factory
Vikki Food Design Factory is a sustainable and healthy food innovation center, created by the collaboration of University of Helsinki and Aalto University. It's a hub for startups, researchers, and industry professionals, offering a pre-incubator program for transformative food system innovators.
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Innovative ecosystems for future sustainable food
Research institutions Viikki Research Farm
The Viikki Research Farm spans 155 hectares of arable land and houses 60 genetically high-merit dairy cows. It offers a modern farm infrastructure that supports diverse research needs, such as feed preservation, alternative protein crop production, dairy cow welfare studies, and dietary strategies to reduce emissions. The farm is a part of the HiLIFE infrastructures.
Image: University of Helsinki
Research institutions VTT
VTT is a top research institution in Europe, owned by the Finnish government. Their goal is to promote the practical use and commercialization of research and technology in both business and society.
Image: VTT
Companies Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. Wärtsilä's Veturi project Zero Emission Marine (ZEM) is a four-year ecosystem project led by Wärtsilä. Image: Wärtsilä Corporation
Circular Valley
Circular Valley