Media and press

What is the circular economy?

The circular economy is a system where waste is designed out, everything is used at its highest possible value, for as long as possible, and natural systems are regenerated. A circular economy envisions and enables a society that is as resource efficient as possible, and where there is no waste, only resources.

How does circularity differ from traditional linear economic models?

In traditional take-make-waste economic models, raw materials are collected and transformed into products that consumers use until they get discarded as waste. This model of consumption is a so-called linear economy where materials only move in one direction.

What are the benefits of a circular economy?

Circular economy is not just about recycling, it allows us to use what we have efficiently and for as long as possible, making it a more sustainable, renewable and resilient model. 

What is the state of circularity in the Nordics?

In the Nordic countries, we like to think of ourselves as environmentally friendly and sustainable—we recycle, return our bottles and choose electric vehicles. Yet, when our circularity has been measured, it falls dramatically short of the world average. Sweden’s Circularity Metric is 3.4%, while Norway’s is even lower at 2.4%. This reflects high levels of consumption, sparse populations and thriving extraction industries. In comparison, the world average circularity is 8.6%.

Why should the Nordic countries invest in the circular economy?

The Nordic region has tremendous circular potential. Circular economy can become the new Nordic brand and by positioning Nordics as a leading region in it, we can claim a strong position in the future markets. We need to change our system to take care of our planet. Taking better care of our nature and improving resource resilience is very important for a region surrounded by nature. Circular economy has the potential to strengthen our local and regional economies and value chains, introduce new and more resilient business models, as well as create inclusive cities and markets for the future.

Who are we?

Nordic Circular Hotspot is a partner-driven collaboration programme to accelerate the circular transition in the Nordics. Led by a group of Managing Partners from all Nordic countries, the NCH works to facilitate and encourage collaboration, knowledge sharing and investment in circular economy solutions. We aim to create circular change right here and now, securing a holistic, circular and sustainable Nordic market.

Nordic Innovation is an organisation working under the Nordic Council of Ministers. It aims to make the Nordics a pioneering region for sustainable growth and works to promote entrepreneurship, innovation and competitiveness in Nordic business. Nordic Innovation supports the vision for the Nordic region to be the most sustainable and integrated region in the world by 2030 by creating new collaborations within and across ideas, industries and markets for a sustainable future.