CircularBIO-RDI

In recent years, cooperation between regional research institutions and universities in wood processing and the use of side streams from forest biomass processing has strengthened. This has improved the exchange of knowledge, the development of shared infrastructure, and the creation of new services that support businesses. Collaborative projects and testing services with companies have expanded, and joint marketing efforts and seminar events have made local actors more visible. Small and medium-sized enterprises have benefited from improved marketing. In addition, the University of Eastern Finland (UEF), Karelia University of Applied Sciences, and the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) maintain the woodjoensuu.fi website, which serves as a shared communication channel for research, events, and services.

The shift toward a circular economy brings new challenges for companies that go beyond product performance and cost efficiency. Discussions with businesses have highlighted specific needs that require developing circular economy business models and the expertise and R&D services to support them. Addressing these needs requires investments in both equipment for biorefining and product testing, as well as in data-based product information services. Companies, especially, benefit from the expertise of universities and research institutions in evaluating and communicating the sustainability of production processes and products. Expanding training services in these areas will also strengthen the long-term competitiveness of local industries.

The aim of this project is to develop the equipment resources of regional research and development organizations, improve their shared use, and build cooperation that supports the circular economy. The focus is on circular economy solutions and value chains in bioeconomy and industrial wood construction. The project is divided into four work packages (WPs): (1) Equipment Investments, (2) Circular Economy and Sustainability, (3) Value Creation and Value Chains, and (4) Communication and Internationalization. WP1 deals with purchasing and commissioning new equipment. WPs 2 and 3 focus on practical demonstrations carried out together with industry. WP4 aims to increase visibility at both national and international levels. As a result of this project, several local companies will start product development collaborations with UEF, Karelia, and Luke. This will support knowledge exchange and strengthen the foundation for sustainable industrial development in the region.