Circular Economy Finland – circular economy know-how hub KiSu
About this good practice
Finland is known for its circular economy strategies; the first circular economy roadmap was launched in 2016 and the strategic circular economy programme in 2021. However, there is still a long way to achieve circularity. For example, our domestic material consumption is high compared to other European countries. The strategic promotion of circular economy has not been translated into sufficient measures.
The CE programme is coordinated by the Ministry of the Environment and Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment. One of the implementation measures of the CE programme was the establishment of a national competence network, KiSu hub. The center is coordinated by the Finnish Environment Institute (a research institute, financed by government) and Motiva (a state-owned sustainable development company).
The center gathers all relevant circular economy information in one place. It helps individuals and organizations find information, tools, funding and partners. It also offers webinars and events and supports actors towards circularity. The hub is open to everyone looking for information and tools about the circular economy. It is aimed especially at municipalities, regions and the business world.
From the beginning of 2025 KiSu will focus on offering support to organisations planning on committing to the Circular Economy Green Deal or those who already have made the commitment.
Expert opinion
Resources needed
To start the KiSu center, it received 1,5 M€ funding for the first 3 years from the Ministry of the Environment. The work is continuing for the next two years with a slightly smaller yearly funding. From 2027 forward the plan is to apply for an EU Life SIP-project to continue the work.
Evidence of success
Many people have found information, participated in events and webinars and thematic groups, numbers below.
During 2023-24, KiSu has organized 47 events, with over 4000 participants. The KiSu newsletter has 1600 subscribers and Linkedin 2800 followers.
Potential for learning or transfer
Systemic change is needed in society, and to achieve the full potential of the circular economy - access to information, cooperation and knowledge sharing are essential.
Ambitious strategies and programs are not enough to achieve the goals, practical actions are needed. KiSu acts as a one-stop-shop that offers information and tools to companies and other organizations. Whether you need information about legislation, policies, funding, events, projects, education and skills or finding a partner or expert, you can find it in the KiSu center.
Such a center would be useful in many regions and countries and is feasible. It requires coordination, cooperation, human resources and funding, as well as political will
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.