Lampinen, M. (2023). Barriers and opportunities of circular economy – sustainable development and circular economy in companies in Seinäjoki region

Summary: The study aims to find out how sustainable development, but especially the circular economy, is perceived by companies operating in the Seinäjoki region and what kind of obstacles and opportunities are seen in its implementation. The research material consists of thematic interviews with seven companies, three sustainability reports and three policy programmes, the latter designed to complement the interview material. The data was analysed using a theory-driven qualitative content analysis. The findings show that sustainability is narrowly perceived as focusing on climate and energy efficiency in companies without a sustainability strategy or programme. For all companies, the circular economy is mainly seen as recycling and the use of recycled materials, with the exception of the food industry, where the potential of biological side streams is understood. This is a long way from the administrative circular economy objectives. Cultural and market barriers such as a backward business culture, high up-front investment costs and standardisation are identified as obstacles to the circular economy. In turn, in terms of opportunities the circular economy is seen in particular as having the potential to generate new business opportunities for the region. The study provides a regional picture of the state of the circular economy.

Usefulness of the results: The study will provide information on both good practices and areas for development that medium-sized Finnish cities and companies operating in medium-sized Finnish cities need in the sustainability transition and in the comprehensive adoption of the circular economy.

Authors: Mikko Lampinen, University of Eastern Finland

Publishing date: 17.11.2023

Format of the publication: Master thesis

Publishing platform: UEF erepository (http://urn.fi/urn:nbn:fi:uef-20231372)

More information: mikko.lampinen@uef.fi