Taking companies to the next level of Circularity
Anne Raudaskoski & Sofia Sundström presenting programme outcomes
What a journey it’s been! Over the past eight months, 31 pioneering Nordic companies and more than 150 participants have joined forces to accelerate the transition towards a circular economy.
On 13 May, we brought the programme to a close in Stockholm with a powerful Final Showcase, where some of the frontrunner companies presented the results of their hard work: circular product concepts, new business models, bold targets and key insights shaped by their time on the Nordic Circular Design Programme.
And the feedback? Nothing short of inspiring!
“The Nordic Circular Design Programme has been integral to deepening our understanding of why circularity is essential for future success, and of how to integrate it into product development.”
– Atlas Copco Group, world leader in compressors, vacuum solutions, generators, and more.
“Scoping business opportunities with a solution supplier and customers of KONE: Use less, use longer, and use again.”
– KONE, a global leader in elevators and escalators.
These are just a few of the many voices that emerged from the programme. In Stockholm, companies stepped on stage to share the highlights and lessons learned from their circular transformation journeys.
Ecco presenting their programme outcomes on the stage
So Why the Nordic Circular Design Programme?
1. Companies can prepare strategically for changes in the market environment.
You may have noticed that the EU is envisaging a future in which the circular economy is the only economy. Legislation around circularity is constantly evolving. For example, just last month the Sustainable Products and Energy Labelling Working Plan introduced new standards for product design and manufacture. Add to that the Right to Repair, the Green Claims Initiative, the Critical Raw Materials Act and the upcoming Circular Economy Act (expected in 2026) and the direction becomes clear.
2. While most companies want to implement circularity, they often don't know where or how to start. This programme acts as a strategic R&D partner, guiding companies on where to begin and how to make meaningful progress.
“NCDP is a catalyst for sustainable innovation, fostering cross-industry collaboration and enabling the creation of long-term value.”
– Sandvik, a multinational engineering company specialising in mining, metal cutting, and rock processing.
3. All business decisions are designed. In fact, everything around us is designed. This programme explores the full spectrum of circular design, including business, product, and service design, and how these translate into real-world solutions.
“Participating in the NCDP was eye-opening.”
– Planmeca & Planmed, manufacturers of state-of-the-art dental and medical imaging equipment
4. Tools and methods: Each workshop introduced practical circular tools that companies could use with their internal teams after the workshop.
5. Networking: This was a major value driver for many participants. Each workshop offered the chance to forge new connections, find collaborators and even meet future customers.
"Engaging with other businesses within the programme provided valuable insights into common challenges and inspired us with real-world examples of circular success stories across industries."
– Ateljé Lyktan, a Nordic lighting design and manufacturing company with 90 years of history.
6. Lastly, the planet is a closed system: And that means there’s a finite amount of resources available. Recent geopolitical developments, such as new tariffs, underscore the value of raw materials and the urgency of keeping existing ones in circulation. If you're thinking of redesigning your business—now’s the time. Don’t wait until the house is already on fire.
While this round of the programme has finished, the journey isn’t over. If you're interested in joining future programmes, fill out the expression of interest form here to stay in the loop.
Sandvik presenting their outcomes on the stage
The Nordic Circular Design Programme is a transformative initiative for forward-thinking companies and visionary R&D professionals. Co-funded by Nordic Innovation and led by Ethica, it is brought to life in collaboration with our partners: Danish Design Centre, CradleNet and the Norwegian Centre for Circular Economy.
Writer: Anne Raudaskoski, Circular design strategist, Author, Co-Founder of Ethica and the “Mother” of the programme.