ALMEDALEN SPECIAL – THE NORDIC ROAD TO PARIS AND BEYOND GREEN VOL 7 SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN 2015 AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES Cities and Mayors Leading the New Climate Economy | 26

FINLAND ON THE ROAD TO ­SUSTAINABLE ­INDUSTRIES IN 2050 | 32 HOT 50 – SWEDEN’S HOTTEST CLEANTECH COMPANIES  | 16 MARK WATTS – C40 | 40 the keys to success in urban transformation? Successful cases CITIES AND MAYORS Sunday 28th of June from various parts of the world. Venue: Wisby Strand ­Congress, LEADING THE NEW CLIMATE ­ECONOMY • Niklas Nordström, Deputy Mayor of Luleå, Sweden & Event, Strandvägen 4, Visby • Aleksi Randell, Mayor of Turku, Finland – THE NORDIC ROAD TO PARIS AND BEYOND • Nils Hillebrand, Deputy Mayor of Linköping, Sweden 13.00 Success in Paris? How can cities • Bo Frank, Mayor of Växjö, Sweden ­contribute? And is there a Nordic way • Sandra Frank, Marketing Director, Folkhem to Paris and beyond? • Yvonne Borg, Director of Communications, E.ON • Pernilla Bonde, CEO, HSB Governments around the world have failed to lay the founda- tion for a global climate agreement. There are many doubts Facilitator: Hanna Begler, Project Leader, regarding the possible success of the Paris Summit in 2015. Global Utmaning

A possible way to make progress, and take significant action 15:30 Coffee break where national governments have failed, is for the world’s cities, big and small, to take the lead in ­developing and im- 16.00 Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Cities plementing appropriate responses. Mayors and other muni- Cities around the globe are taking sustainability to a whole cipal leaders have already ­begun to implement strong new level, and developing inspiring solutions to many of our climate mitigation, adaptation, technology, finance policies greatest urban challenges. The multitude and diversity of the- and programmes, both individually and through coalition se ideas provide a smorgasbord of solutions from which cities organisations like the C40 and ICLEI. And how can mayors can pick and choose based on their own local context. and cities in the Nordics contribute. Is it a roadmap to Paris and beyond? • Morten Kabell, Technic and Environmental Mayor of ­Copenhagen, Denmark • Björn Jansson, Mayor of Gotland, Sweden • Patrick Burgi, Director, South Pole Group • Anders Wijkman, co-president Club of Rome • Svante Sjöstedt, Environment Analyst, Gothenburg City • Maria Wetterstrand, Climate Advisor and former • Jimmy Jansson, Mayor of Eskilstuna, Sweden ­Spokesperson for the Swedish Green Party • Anders Teljebäck, Mayor of Västerås, Sweden • Tuula Antola, Director of Economic and Business Facilitator: Johan Kuylenstierna, Executive Director, ­Development in Espoo, Finland Stockholm Environment Institute, (SEI) Facilitator: Barbara Evaeus, Climate 13.30 Low-carbon investments in cities Communicator,­ WWF Sweden – the way to build a sustainable future Cities generate around 80% of global economic output, and 17.00 Innovation & Technology around 70 % of global energy use and energy-related GHG in Urban ­Sustainable Development ­emissions. How cities develop will be critical to the future path How can we use technology and innovation to create of the global economy and climate – thus this is a great oppor- ­sustainable climate friendly cities? With a rapid increase tunity. What are the barriers to get the investments right? in urbanization cities are playing a bigger role in the battle against climate change. Can local municipalities work as • Jakob Granit, Director, SEI Stockholm ­catalyst for urban sustainable development? • Guri Melby, Dep Mayor of Oslo, Norway • Sóley Tómasdottir, President of Council Reykjavik, Iceland • James Hanusa, Director of Urban Innovation Exchange, • Mats A Andersson, CEO, 4th Pension Fund, Sweden San Francisco, USA • Tiina Kähö, Senior Lead, Sitra, Finland • Henrik Madsen, Professor, DTU Compute, Institute for Mathematics and Computer Science, Climate KIC – Nordic Facilitator: Johan Kuylenstierna, Executive Director, • Jan Thörnqvist, Sales Director, Saab AB Stockholm Environment Institute, (SEI) • Tomas Häyry, Mayor of Vaasa, Finland • Anne Kristine Linnestad, Mayor of Ski, Norway 14.30 How cities lead the way – successful ­cases on urban transformation­ Facilitator: Jens Olejak, Managing Director Sweden, Cities are at the heart of sustainable development. Whereas South Pole group cities account for a large share of global emissions, cities are also arenas for new ideas and technical solutions. What are

2 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 3 17:45 Cities actions and Mayors leadership • AnnSofie Andersson, Mayor of Östersund, Sweden on the road to Paris – Summing up of the • Mrs Banashri Bose Harrison, Ambassador of India Monday 29 June 2015 • Joachim Beijmo, Director of Communication, Sida days talk to Sweden & Latvia Venue: Sida, Donnersgatan 6, • Helen Arfvidsson, Lead Researcher, Mistra Urban Future How can cities be leading in sustainable global ­development? • Maja Fjaestad, State Secretary to the Swedish Minister for and University of Gothenburg The seminars focus on Cities and ­Mayors work to fight Strategic Development and Nordic Cooperation Visby • Case studies from Gothenburg, Cape Town Based on the re- ­Climate Change. Cities deliver solutions on mitigation, adap- port from Mistra Urban Futures, Sida, tation, technology and finance. All key element in Facilitator: : Johan Kuylenstierna, Executive ­Director, 08.00-10.00 Urban Goals and New Roles • Daniel Otieno Okutah, Assistant City Manager, Kisumu, the international nego­tiation for Climate deal in Paris. SEI /Alexander Crawford, Process Manager, Global for City Leaders Sida and Mistra Urban Kenya Utmaning Futures­ • Thore Vestby, Mayor of Frogn, Norway • Prof David Simon, FAcSS, Director, Mistra Urban Futures In 2015, the UN will decide on a new set of global go- • Ilmar Reepalu, former Mayor of Malmö, Sweden als, building on the Millennium Goals. How can we • Runar Balsrud, Mayor of Hurdal, Norway 18.30 End contribute with a Urban Sustainable Development Goal, emphasising the significance and impact of Facilitator: Prof David Simon, FAcSS, Director, ­cities’ policies and strategies for a sustainable future. Mistra Urban Futures.

MAYORS AND CITIES ROUND TABLE (Vice president, Club of Rome), followed by roundtable Venue: Campus Gotland, conversations. Cramérgatan 3, Visby 13.00 Lunch

14.00 A session on IMPACT INVESTMENT Facilitator: Alexander Crawford, ­ Contributions from Sasja Beslik (Head of SRI, Nordea) Global Utmaning and Marcello Palazzi (Senior Fellow, Harvard University)­ 10.15 INTRODUCTIONS AND FRAMING 10.30 A session on INNOVATION 14.30 A session on KEY ACTIONS AND Contributions from James Hanusa (Director of Urban MESSAGES­ Innovation Exchange, San Francisco), Line Gry Knud- Followed by roundtable conversation and working sen (Climate-KIC Nordic) and Bert Ola Bergstrand session (Lund Open Innovation Center), followed by roundta- ble conversation. 16.00 REFLECTIONS and CONCLUSIONS

11.45 A session on LOW-CARBON The Mayors and Cities Roundtable is AND CIRCULARITY a closed meeting for invited mayors, Contributions from Patrick Burgi (Low-Carbon Cities Lab and Director, South Pole Group), Kristina­ Mår- experts and guests. tensson (Programme Manager, Nordic Built Cities) and Anders Wijkman

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GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 5 HIGHLIGHTS ■ “GOVERNMENTS AROUND THE HIGHLIGHTS WORLD HAVE FAILED TO LAY THE ­FOUNDATION FOR A GLOBAL VOL.7 CLIMATE AGREEMENT. THERE ARE MANY DOUBTS ­REGARDING THE 12 18 32 IN THE SPOTLIGHT SIX AREAS OF MAJOR ­STRATEGIC FINLAND ON THE ROAD TO POSSIBLE SUCCESS OF THE News and reports about nordic IMPORTANCE ­SUSTAINABLE ­INDUSTRIES clean tech and sustainable Although a new government came IN 2050 PARIS SUMMIT IN 2015. HOW CAN innovations, for exampla fuel from to power in Sweden in 2014, the country’s Carbon-neutral industry is one of forest waste. strong commitment to climate change issues Sitra’s focus areas contributing to CITIES CONTRIBUTE?” ■ is unabated. In less than 40 years, Sweden Finlands aim to be resource-wise has gone from having a heavily oil and and carbon-neutral in 2050. Sitra coal- dependent energy system to helps Finnish businesses adapt to a system that runs on almost 50 percent the demands of a carbon-neutral renewable energy. We met with Sweden’s society. Senior Lead Tiina Kähö is Minister for Strategic Development and leading the focus are Nordic Cooperation, Kristina Persson, who has pinpointed six areas that are of great strategic importance for the future.

16 SWEDEN’S 50 HOTEST – CLEANTECH COMPANIES We have listed 50+ smart investments in what we consider to be some of the hottest 42 cleantech start ups in the Nordics. WWF: THE CITIES HOLD THE The criteria for being on the list KEY TO A SUSTAINABLE are, among others, that the SOCIETY company should have an The cities have a key role in innovative product or service with working towards sustainable an international impact potential. societies. Innovation is high in many places, but Carina Borg- ström-Hansson, expert ecological footprint on the WWF in Sweden think the Nordic cities need to think outside the box to find 26 solutions that have global effects. CITIES AND MAYORS LEADING THE »Nordic cities are particularly well NEW CLIMATE ECONOMY placed to take large steps. Governments around the world have failed to That makes demands greater on lay the ­foundation for a global climate them»,she says. agreement. There are many doubts ­regarding the possible success of the Paris Summit in 2015. How can cities contribute?

Publisher/chief editor: Erik Säfvenberg, Editorial production: Dynamo Press AB, Project Manager: Lars Ling, CEO & Founder CleanTech­ Region, Journalist & Blogger: Kaj Embrén, Art Director: Jan Petterson Print: iVisby Tryckeri AB. Contact: Dynamo Press, ­­­Västra Norrlands- gatan 18A, 903 27 Umeå, Sweden, info@dynampress,.se, Sales: +46703982211, +46727406606, [email protected] Information: This is a special issue of Green Solutions from Sweden and the Nordic countries Vol 7 aimed at the Almedalen events.

6 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 7 EDITORIAL COLUMN/KAJ EMBRÉN

a greater commitment to being part of building a global planning tools for building cities that are better partnership like this,” he explains. integrated and sustainable. Can cities and mayors Later that week, the mayor and Luleå’s head of It seems fitting that sustainable urban innovation is business and economy, Matz Engman, visit Tesla’s occurring in a city with such a fluid population. And manufacturing plant in Freemont, just outside San what would San Francisco be without its immigrants? lead the way on Francisco. While bicycles, coffee areas and computers Over 40 percent of city’s inhabitants (and just over 30 may be expected features of Facebook’s headquarters percent of Austin’s) come from abroad. The resulting sustainable development? (which the pair visited earlier in the day), finding them in diversity has arguably driven the area’s ongoing trans- a car factory is something of a surprise. But this industry formation, something for us to think about when we talk is also changing rapidly, with Tesla at the forefront. of immigration in Europe. ON A TRIP BETWEEN STOCKHOLM AND LONDON, I Greenpeace publicly welcomed Facebook’s investment found myself accompanied by two potential agents of because of the the Swedish operation’s use of renewable HAVING BOUGHT THE FACTORY from Toyota for USD- LULEÅ’S MAYOR, Niklas Nordström, says he sees several change – Benjamin Barber’s book If Mayors Ruled the energy. This success marks is another way in which Luleå 43mil, the company then received a USD50mil invest- important links between the development of Norrbotten World and a Swedish city mayor, Niklas Nordström. The has emerged into a new economic era. River hydropower ment from the Japanese car giant. Not a bad deal for the (the region his city is located in) and the talks happening former has the power to inspire and empower local is now a significant resource and even traditionally electric vehicle manufacturer, which currently sells at Silicon Valley’s Nordic Innovation House. He takes the politicians who wish to take on big challenges. The latter ‘dirty’ industries are cleaning up, with about 1,000 cars a week, up from 600 at the beginning stage in a discussion with Anne Lidgard of Vinnova, the – who has recently taken charge in the city of Luleå – is steel facilities contributing their of 2014. Tesla’s customers are found mainly in the USA Swedish government’s innovation agency manager in exactly the type of mayor who has the power to lead surplus energy to the district and Norway and while its share of world car sales may be Silicon Valley. change. heating system, keeping modest for now, there will soon be huge interest in its “Right now in Kiruna, in the north, they are moving The ability of cities to shape national strategies neighborhoods warm at concept, argues Nordström: “We see our work in Luleå the whole city and building a new ‘sustainable city’. The should not be underestimated – they can help address the lowest prices in the as having to learn from developments in the new areas mining industry has undermined the city’s location up to two-thirds of a country’s policy issues. For country. When I ask where IT really start to change our lives.” [with the relocation prompted by the expanding mine] instance, one of the more influential city networks, the Nordström about his Over in Silicon Valley, an evening gathering at – a unique situation. With the skills here in Silicon Valley C-40 Group, is on track to reduce its members’ carbon views on the city’s Nordic Innovation House brings together a number of and Stanford University, both Kiruna and Luleå gain new dioxide emissions by 248 million tonnes by 2020 – role and global focus, the figures participating in ‘ Cities and Mayors leading insights into the construction and development of equivalent to the total greenhouse gas emissions of he immediately the new climate economy – the Nordic road to Paris and sustainable cities,” he tells the attendees. Portugal and Argentina combined. explains that doing Beyond - the opening event of Almedalen Week (a series There are several components of these, Nordström This is just one example of how global problems can nothing is irresponsi- of important political forums, seminars and debates argues, including technological development and be addressed with local solutions, or ‘glocalism’. Apply ble and leads to held every June in Sweden). integration of planning, construction and operation. this logic to other international challenges– such as stagnation and non- Sustainable cities are also about the growth of local conflict, integration, economic inequality and disease sustainable community THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET MAYORS at Almedalen is political activities by eroding sector boundaries and epidemics – and you see how, with the right partner- development. “We have also of interest to James Hanusa, a leading figure streamlining everyday work in the municipality. But ships, cities can provide an alternative to the traditional now signed a first in San Francisco’s new technological and social what is particularly inspiring is that, with the help of channels of global governance. ‘letter of intent’ development. Although best know as innova- new technologies, they can develop democracy and allow Seeing Nordström assume the role of foreign with Austin tion manager for the annual Burning Man both officials and citizens of new ways to have a direct minister as he enters the mayoral office in Austin earlier and my festival, Hanusa has also participated in impact. But with so many competing interests, surely this year is a sign of how the new global landscape is employ- projects involving residents, politicians there is also political tension here? evolving. It’s moving fast. But then so is Austin. The ees feel and officials in the interactive, ‘smart’ “For parties, I see this as a great opportunity to Texan capital is now an emerging hub of IT and innova- urban developments in San Francisco. revitalize the party work and Almedalen is just the place tion, home to some of America’s most vibrant creative These are just some of the inno­ to bring this type of discussion,” says Nordström. “And sectors. Here, the governor has even appointed a senior vators using new technology more remember. We mayors are pragmatic and community official whose sole function is to ensure that the city systematically to build smart cities. builders with local ties. This perspective makes us the remains a leading hub for the country’s music industry. Many of the analysts I speak with key actors to work with the challenges that communities While Luleå, in the north of Sweden, may be smaller in Silicon Valley argue that using around the world are facing. Although national govern- than Austin, it is also a growth area, though it has large data sets to better ments negotiating in Paris later this year [at the UN historically relied more traditional industries like steel understand human behavior Climate Change Conference] will not agree on a common and mining in nearby Kiruna. Here too, there is now a can international climate agreement, we will.” vibrant music scene, with concerts held in igloos and help treat economic, social “Mayors will continue our global network and deliver musical instruments made of ice proving to be viable and environmental issues solutions to climate change. This is important and we selling points for the city. Once deeply rooted in iron simultaneously when can thus show the way in which international coopera- and steel, Luleå is also now home a world-leading, planning an urban environ- tion should be conducted. But we must act strongly and climate-neutral cluster of data centers, used by tech ment. This holistic, cross- consistently and that’s what we will, among other things, giants such as Facebook. sector approach offers new see in Almedalen in June.”

8 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 9 THIS ARTICLE WAS PAID FOR BY FORTUM VÄRME THIS ARTICLE WAS PAID FOR BY FORTUM VÄRME

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS FOR THE CITIES OF THE FUTURE A warm home and a nice shower – every day, all year round. It is something many people take for granted. Stockholm’s district-heating network is probably one of the city’s best kept secrets. Beneath the feet of residents lies a network of hot-water pipes that are the lifeblood of the region, running from north to south and east to west – important infrastructure based on the principle that together we can heat each other.

District heating’s contribution so far mutual business benefit to 7bn in new, large-scale heat – its future role will be even more everyone involved. production based on recycled and important The model is known as Open renewable energy. Over the years, district heating District Heating®, and is the world’s “Our aim is for 100% of energy has replaced a large number of first trading site for surplus heat. It production in Stockholm to come small oil powered boilers, and is one of several examples of areas from renewable and recycled this has improved air quality. Fortum Värme is developing sources by 2030 at the latest, but District heating has greatly through collaboration with custom- we want to get there sooner, and contributed to what we are today. ers, partners and the city, so that in our planning involves looking at Stockholm became Europe’s first the future Stockholm will be an how quickly we can achieve this European Green Capital in 2010, even more attractive place to live, goal,” Anders Egelrud concludes. and was selected as an Earth Hour work and do business in. National Capital as part of WWF’s Earth Hour City Challenge 2014. Fortum Värme heats over two thirds Stockholm’s district heating is of all houses and buildings in Stock- playing an even more important holm. We produce and deliver heating role in terms of facilitating the and cooling to 10,000 customers, future development of sustain- and simultaneously produce electric- ity resource-efficiently. By recycling able cities. energy from residual products, refuse and waste water, we make use of en- Local cycle – save resources and ergy that would otherwise have been increase recycling lost. This process is part of a cycle that contributes towards the city’s sustain- Producing district heating also ability. Everything is based on joint produces electricity. Resource solutions, and the more people that efficiently. When you turn on the are involved, the more efficient this tap at home, you can do so with a process will be. clear conscience. Your shower can Open District Heating puts Fortum Värme is co-owned by Fortum heat your neighbour’s radiators, Stockholm a step ahead of other and the City of Stockholm, and has and simultaneously provide the cities in the competition for data sales of SEK 7bn. Between 2010 and electricity to cook your evening halls, giving the city huge poten- 2016, SEK 7bn is being invested in new CHP production in the Stockholm meal. Eighty-seven per cent of tial for growth and the possibility region, and by 2030 at the latest 100% Stockholm’s district heating is of assuming pole position as of district heating is to be produced already being produced from Europe’s foremost hub for from renewable and recycled energy, renewable and recycled energy. information- and communication- compared with the current level of 87%. The wholly owned gas business technology companies,” says sells and distributes city gas and gas Sustainable urban development Anders Egelrud, CEO Fortum for vehicles. through collaboration Värme. Together with its partners, Fortum Värme – together we stay warm. Fortum Värme has developed a Major investments in renewable business solution that make it energy possible to use surplus heat that Over an ongoing 5-year period was previously wasted, providing Forum Värme is investing SEK

10 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 11 IN THE SPOTLIGHT

DEMONSTRATION PLANT FOR POWER TO GAS It is possible to take advantage of Power to Gas in Sweden. A demonstra- tion plant is going to be built that can utilise surplus electricity – inclu- ding wind power – to produce hydrogen, and thus store the surplus in gas networks. An increase in the production of biogas is also feasible, and ■ Use of Preem Evolution Petrol will reduce annual carbon-dioxide emissions from petrol powered vehicles by over 13,600 tonnes. ■ overall this will reduce emissions and pave the way for more wind power.

weden is on the verge of major in gas networks or increasing produc- plans to expand wind power and they START PETROL SELLS MADE expansion in wind power. tion of biogas – increases the propor- all want to increase the use of biofuels. S Instances of overproduction tion of renewables, reduces emissions Beyond that, their circumstances FROM FOREST WASTE will become increasingly frequent, and paves the way for more wind differ. and at the same time periods without power. Power to Gas interlinks energy The study shows that during The fuel company Preem is launching a petrol made from forest waste. wind will necessitate rapid access to systems and facilitates smart use of certain periods Gotland already has Ten per cent of Preem Evolution Petrol is renewable, with half of this co- an alternative source of electricity. energy resources. Power to Gas plants surplus electricity from wind power. There is no lack of renewable are being built all over Europe, and the The region also has plans for expan- ming from forest waste. In 2011 Preem launched a diesel made from tall energy. The challenge is in making this study shows that Sweden has the right sion of biogas, and it has a local oil, also called »liquid rosin« or tallol, a residual product from the forestry renewable energy available where and conditions for doing likewise. industry that creates high levels of when it is needed, and at competitive Piteå is one of three localities that carbon-dioxide emissions. For its part, industry, and Sweden became the first country in the world to produce prices. A study of options for using have been studied as possible locations Falkenberg has good access to gas a standard diesel made from forest waste. Sweden will now be the first Power to Gas in Sweden shows that for this technology. The other two are infrastructure, it has continued plans utilisation of surplus electricity – pro- Falkenberg and the island of Gotland. for expansion of wind power and a country in the world to produce a petrol partially based on tall oil. ducing hydrogen, storing the surplus All three locations have ambitious hydrogen filling station is being built. reem Evolution Petrol will be vehicle fleets, which is still completely Preem introduced HVO diesel in the greenest petrol on the dominated by petrol- and diesel-pow- 2011, and became the first company P market. Ten per cent of it is ered cars (97% of all vehicles on the not only in Sweden but also globally THE NORDIC COUNTRIES BEST FOR START-UPS renewable, compared with a figure of road run on petrol or diesel). Filling to produce HVO diesel based on tall five per cent for all other petrols on up with Evolution Diesel currently oil. It fast became a success, and the market, and it can be used in all puts 32% of renewables in your tank, HVO greatly contributed to the Almost one in ten of the world’s start-ups sold for over USD 1bn – so- petrol-powered vehicles. Use of and this has meant a reduction in increased proportion of renewable called unicorns – come from the Nordic countries.The Nordic countries; Preem Evolution Petrol will reduce carbon dioxide emissions of about fuels in Sweden. annual carbon-dioxide emissions 1.5m tonnes since 2011. Preem is still “Our renewable fuels are an Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Finland, are lush pastures for unicorns, from petrol powered vehicles by over working on increasing this percent- important component in transition- aka start-up companies with a price tag of over US dollar 1 billion, writes 13,600 tonnes, which is the same as age, but the crucial factor is legisla- ing Sweden’s transport sector. the emissions from about 5,500 cars. tion and fiscal terms regarding Forestry-based fuels are also arcticstartup.com referring to an analysis from the Swedish venture capi- “It’s a first step. We have far renewable raw materials. decreasing Sweden’s dependence on tal fund Creandum. higher ambitions, both for diesel and “For those of us who want to imported oil, creating jobs in areas for petrol, but to proceed we need invest in development and produc- of low population and giving the vlobally, one in nine start-ups global GDP and 3% of the population Mojang. The latter two companies long-term rules of play from our tion of new and more sustainable forestry industry a new source of is sold for over US dollar 1 in Europe. This is a remarkably are behind the huge gaming suc- politicians,” says Petter Holland, fuels, it is absolutely crucial that our revenue,” says Petter Holland. G billion. In the Nordic coun- strong number, considering that the cesses Candy Crush and Minecraft, Preem’s CEO and President. investment be viable. Next year sees From the end of June Preem tries, it is one in five. rest of Europe accounts for 8% of respectively. In September 2014, Preem’s Evolution fuels are the end of the tax exemption on the Evolution Petrol will be available at The analysis shows that since the world’s unicorns despite having Microsoft acquired Minecraft for contributing to a reduction in renewable content of fuels. At the around 40 filling stations in south- 2005, 9% of global billion US dollar 97% of the population in Europe. USD 2.5bn. emissions of greenhouse gases. In moment no-one can say what the ern Sweden. The product will (BUSD) exits have come from Danish unicorns include Skype, developing traditional fuels, Preem is taxes and regulations will be like gradually be offered at more filling Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Zendesk, JustEat and Unity. Swedish reducing emissions from today’s after that,” says Petter Holland. stations nationwide. Finland, accounting for only 2% of unicorns include Spotify, King and Read more at arcticstartup.com

12 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN | 13 IN THE SPOTLIGHT

FOOD COMPANY IN NORDIC Luleå grows CLEANTECH EFFORT sustainably Arla Foods, Skandinaviens största mejerikoncern, förstärker nu innovationsinsatsen och går med i Nordic Cleantech Innovation Link, ett av de bredaste nordiska nätverken för miljöteknikföretag.

rla Foods, Scandinavia’s biggest dairy group, is now A increasing its investment in innovation, and is joining up with Nordic Cleantech Innovation Link, one of the broadest Nordic networks for cleantech companies. “Arla has ambitious targets for its innovation investments over the coming years. Firstly, in 2017 at least 10% of our sales is to come from new products, and secondly we want our work to be both smarter and more sustainable. I’m sure we’ll find new innovation partners in NCI Link who can contribute to substantial renewal of our product range, and who we can work with to develop our processes,” says Harry Barraza, Head of Open Innovation – Universities & Consortia at Arla Foods amba. Through NCI-Link Arla will be able to collaborate with small and medium sized cleantech companies companies in the network have new concepts and ingredients.” in the development of new products technologies and solutions that can NCI-Link currently comprises Electricity from renewable hydropower and stable Public transport has Sweden’s most satisfied custo- and productions as part of an open contribute to Arla’s innovation four industry partners and about 80 electrics have made Facebook want to build their mers and the number of bus journeys made is innovation process. The first objectives. small and medium-sized technology European data centre in Luleå. Together with Boden increasing steadily. This autumn, production of fuel collaborative project with one of “Arla is the ideal industry partner enterprises in Norway, Sweden and and Piteå, we have created The Node Pole to become gas for vehicles will begin at the town’s sewage NCI-Link’s member companies has for NCI-Link,” says Ole Jakob Denmark. a global hub for data traffic. treatment plant and we are to become Sweden’s best already begun. Thorsen from ETEQ Venture, which town for cycling. “Together with one of the Danish represents the Danish part of Luleå Science Park at Luleå University of Technology technology companies in NCI-Link, NCI-Link. has a leading role in creating innovations and attrac- We collaborate globally. A collaboration with Austin we are examining a completely new “Arla is focusing on developing ABOUT NORDIC CLEANTECH tiveness. The park houses around 100 knowledge in Texas has recently been initiated to strengthen technology that can greatly contrib- more sustainable and environmental- INNOVATION LINK intensive businesses. Luleå’s creative powers. We have a different type of Nordic Cleantech Innovation Link is ute to the development of new ly-friendly products and processes in collaboration with multimillion city Xi’an in China. ingredients, flavourings and products an open innovation climate involving a network that uses open innovation Surplus gas from SSAB´s steel mill heats large parts to support collaboration between – a good example of what we wish to external technology partners. This is of Luleå. District heating is the cheapest in Sweden. The list is much longer. innovative cleantech companies and Get in touch, and we’ll tell you more. achieve with our ‘open innovation’ precisely what NCI Link offers. We established industries. NCI-Link is Luleå is growing. Over the coming ten years, there strategy, i.e. sustainable new can help Arla find innovation run by Teknopol AB and their are plans for 5,000 new and climate-smart homes. products and a shorter lead times partners who can contribute towards industry venture Cleantech Inn from concept to market,” says Harry creating better production processes Sweden, plus ETEQ Venture in Barraza. and new packaging and distribution Denmark and OREEC in Norway. NCI-Link thinks that at least ten concepts, and developing sustainable Read more at www.nci-link.org

14 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN www.lulea.se HOT 50

HOT 50 SWEDEN’S HOTTEST

______ABSOLICON ______ANYLOTEC CLEANTECH Absolicon aspires to be the world’s leading supplier of Anolytech takes the long-term approach to its work on solar concentrators. By developing, manufacturing and developing safe, eco-friendly and economical disinfection selling solar energy systems that generate renewable solutions for livestock farming and food production. They energy in various forms. Absolicon has a unique technol- develop modern technology and comprehensive systems ogy, based on 20 years of research, for extracting energy for maximum effect from a minimum of work. Anolytech’s in different forms using concentrated solar collectors, or solutions are readily scalable, so they can easily be solar concentrators. The concentrators help reduce the adapted to suit both large and small enterprises. production costs, while simultaneously providing a high degree of energy efficiency in the form of thermal energy, ______APPLIED NANO SURFACE COMPANIES solar electricity, solar cooling, solar heat and solar steam. Applied Nano Surfaces has developed efficient surface treatment methods that reduce friction and wear. Im- ______AIREC proves fuel efficiency in engines and increases product Airec’s business mission is simple and clear: To develop life for pumps, rock drills, chains and many other applica- and manufacture Gas Heat Exchangers which give tions. customers a significant competitive edge when using our products in their systems. They offer compact, efficient ______ARSIZIO and cost-effective heat exchangers unique to Airec. Arsizio’s concept is a further development of conventional

16 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 17 HOT 50

3D-extrusion technique. By the usage of integrated ______CLIMACHECK rotating matrices in the pressurized zone of the extrusion ClimaCheck has developed a unique system that enables ______eZE SYSTEM tool, an indent or “footprint“ is created on the extruded energy savings and trouble-free operations in cooling eze System makes advanced control and monitoring profile. The technology thereby allows the creation of systems by analyzing and visualizing actual performance available to applications where complexity and cost has reliefs that were impossible to previously achieve. The of equipment in real time. been prohibiting. thing about the technology is that any material possible to extrude with conventional extrusion technique, such as ______CLIMATEWELL ______FERROAMP plastic, rubber, aluminum etc., can be 3D-extruded. ClimateWell has invented and successfully developed Ferroamp presents the EHUB – a modular solar cell a thermochemical heat pump that converts and stores inverter with energy storage. 4-quadrant technology thermal energy used for heating and cooling without the enables bidirectional energy flows and grid supporting need for electricity. functions.

______FLEXENCLOSURE Flexenclosure´s product can deliver a 90 percent reduc- tion in diesel fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, and energy-related OPEX compared to traditional diesel- based systems that powers mobile telecom sites in large areas of developing countries.

______HELIOSPECTRA Heliospectra have developed intelligent LED lighting solutions for plant science and horticulture applications. Their LED solutions make it possible to closely control the ______DISRUPTIVE MATERIALS AB UPSALITE. intensity of light wavelengths and to accurately match the ______BESTWOOD Disruptive Materials AB. Upsalite® is a material with world spectrum to a specific plant. The spectral distribution of Bestwood specializes in real-time analysis of solid fuel record breaking features. The extreme moisture adsorp- their systems (400nm to 735nm) is consistent with the such as forest residue, waste and coal. One major product tion, the energy savings by regenerations and huge action spectrum of photosynthesis and key photomor- line is a set of systems for moisture determination, price surface makes it the hottest material in the drying ­industry. phological receptors. settlement and logistics optimization of fuel deliveries. ______ECOSPARC ______I–TECH ______BIOENDEV Ecosparc develops chips for LED lighting, based on the I-Tech is developing a marine biocide; Selektope® to Bioendev mission is to develop and supply high-tech semiconductor material zinc oxide (ZnO) in combination be used in marine paint prohibiting growth on ship and systems that enables the most efficient refining of with nanowires. The combination of Ecospark’s propri- boat hulls. The substance is effective against barnacles biomass for use in CHP systems, conversion to fuels and etary LED structure and low temperature manufacturing and some other shell builders while having a minimal production of green chemicals. Today BioEndev has a ______CLIMEON method enables production in large scale at a fraction of effect on the marine surrounding. Pilot plant in operation and an Industrial Demonstrations Climeon’s develop meffective system for conversion of the cost of conventional LEDs. Compared with today’s Unit under construction starting its production during hot water to electricity (waste heat recovery). Their LED technology, Ecospark’s LEDs will be more energy 2015. Together with Bioendevs EPC-partner, BioEndev product ”Ocean” will help shipping companies to save efficient, have 8 - 10 times lower production costs and at will be selling turnkey torrefaction plants ranging from money and fuel. the same time provide a highly improved light spectrum. 100-200 kton production per year. They also offer retrofit of white pellets plants to torrefaction. ______CORPOWER OCEAN ______EKOBALANS Compact high efficiency Wave Energy Converters (WECs) Ekobalans offers solutions for sustainable recycling of ______CATATOR delivering five times more energy per ton of device com nutrients from sewage treatment plants, biogas produc- Catator mission is to become a key supplier worldwide of pared to previous state-of-the-art wave power. Small ers, and farms with surplus manure. Extracted nutrients high quality catalytic products for efficient energy supply. robust units offering Cost of-Energy competitive with are refined into concentrated, high quality fertilizers. Examples are zero emission burners for heat production, offshore wind. fuel processor components to fuel cell systems and ______ENEVO excellent catalysts for emission reduction. ______CORTUS ENERGY Enevo have developed a product, Enevo ONe. It is a Cortus Energy offers cost-effective bioenergy solutions for comprehensive logistics solution that saves time, money ______CHROMAFORA process and power industries based on the patented and the environment. It uses wireless sensors to measure Chromafora holds a unique IP that enables fine chemical gasification technology WoodRoll®, that has great fuel and forecast the fill-level of waste containers and gener- manufacturing that decreases waste and energy con- flexibility, so that the process can use low grade renew- ates smart collection plans using the most efficient sumption. The company offers the chemical manufactur- able fuel without compromising the performance. schedules and routes. The solution provides up to 50 ing industry the possibility to use the reagent/catalyst percent in direct cost savings. phosphines. ______DIAMORPH ______EXEGER Diamorph supplies advanced material solutions for ______INFRAFONE Exeger develops and produces third generation solar ______CHROMAGENICS particularly demanding industrial applications. The ­Infrafone’s mission is to help our customers increase the cells (dye-sensitized solar cells, “DSC”) using screen ChromoGenics develops electrochromic smart glass that company focuses on narrow niches and its products efficiency, availability and longevity of their marine and printing, a well-established and proven production tints with a low electrical voltage, saving energy and generally increase the reliability, service life and/or industrial boilers using infrasound technology to prevent technology. increasing comfort. A unique roll-to-roll process enables a performance in the customers’ applications. the accumulation and build up of soot deposits. flexible business model.

18 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 19 HOT 50

By ­using infrasound technology, they offer soot cleaning ______NEOZE ______REFORM TECH type technology that can produce materials for solar cells solutions that create value through their unique knowl- NeoZeo. Based on an invention in preparation of volume- ReformTech develops and sells clean and catalytic heaters that generates a higher efficiency with an attractive low edge and experience. With more than 1,000 installations efficient adsorbents for gas separation, NeoZeo offers a for automotive and other mobile and stationary applica- cost for customers. worldwide, they consider themselfs market leaders and solution to tap the largest unexplored potential for tions, such as engine and compartment heating, battery experts in the field to “create value with infrasound.” producing raw biogas: the farms. pre-heating and heating in mobile homes. ______SOLEIA GREENTECH Solelia Greentech offers solutions for charging electric ______INNOVENTUM ______OPTISTING ______REHACT vehicles (EVs) with solar electricity. Its business builds on InnoVentum offers the most carbon-neutral wind Optistring develops smart solar inverters that increase the Rehact offers the patented Rehact Energy System that the core IT and energy system Solbank™ (The Sun Bank) turbine solutions on the Planet by using renewable energy harvest, enhance safety and monitoring, and reduces the need for purchased energy by 85 percent for that enables solar charging in connected chargers at any materials for the majority of the tower construction and reduce the cost of both the inverter and the whole heating, cooling and ventila¬tion of buildings. The time of the day, any day of the year. recycled materials for the rest. A 2kW generator with photovoltaic system. business idea is to develop technology that will reduce blades typically weighs around 50 kg. A ten times more the need for external energy in buildings. ______SVENSKA AEROGEL AB powerful 20kW turbine weigh forty times more. Their ______ORBITAL SYSTEM­ Svenska Aerogel AB has developed a patented, flexible systems are modularized for ease of transport and Orbital Systems are a cutting-edge technology company ______RIPASSO ENERGY method to produce Quartzene®, an aerogel-like material, assembly. The 2kW solution also has a self-erecting in southern Sweden, having developed a disruptive water Based on the very good experience of the Stirling Engine at a significantly lower cost than previously possible. towers so that neither trucks nor cranes are required, recycling technology to be used in domestic appliances. from submarines and also from CSP demonstration sites in Quartzene® is significantly cheaper and more ecologically which makes both installation and power creation Our patented technology makes the world’s most USA, Ripasso acquired the license from Kockums and sustainable than other aerogel materials. carbon-neutral. advanced and efficient shower unit, saving up to over 90 entered other strategic partnerships in order to further percent water and 80 percent energy, whilst increasing develop the Dish-Stirling concept. Since 2011 the Ripasso ______TOMOLOGIC ______INNVENTIA comfort and hygiene. Sustainable Development is our CSP design has been tested in the factory in Sweden and Artificial Intelligence is about to revolutionize the sheet Innventia is a world-leading research insti­tute that works driving force and can be traced in all of our work. in Antalya, Turkey. The first commercial power plant is now metal Industry. This fall, Tomologic proudly introduces with innovations based on forest raw materials. The being built for the South African company, GHG Reduc- Optimization Intelligence as a Service. You can now majority of their operations are carried out in project form tions in Upington, RSA where the solar radiation gives DNI significantly reduce costs and increase processing via research programmes involving many partners, such levels which are among the highest in the world (2800 to throughput while preserving high product quality. as the three-year Cluster Research Programme, or in 3000 kWh/m2 and year). Tomologics optimization service can reduce manu­ development projects with individual customer compa- facturers’ material waste by up to 50 percent. Manu­ nies. Innventia also carries out a large number of direct ______SCYPHO AB facturers achieve more efficient raw material utilization, commissions in the form of analyses, testing and demon- Scypho AB has developed a groundbreaking adaptive lower power consumption as well as faster production strations in their lab and pilots. control system that saves energy through smart control of processing. The bottom line: reduced material, pro­ heating, targeting residential home market. duction and operation costs. ______LUNAVATION Lunavation AB is an IPR holding company started by ______VASASENSOR researchers at Linköping University and Umeå University Vasasensor is a spin-off from the institute of micro and in Sweden to facilitate the commercialization of research nanotechnology in Gothenburg, Acreo Swedish ICT results. They have started the commercialization of and Chalmers University of Technology. The company light-emitting electrochemical cells, also known as LECs started its journey at Chalmers School of Entrepreneur- or LEECs. They are a printable, inexpensive light-emitting ______OREXPLORE ship, CSE, and has been working with the wireless sensor devices for displays and lighting applications. Orexplore develops, manufactures and sells composition system for the paper industry since 2003. The innovation analysis products for non-organic materials based on an behind the product arose from needs in the paper ______MANTAX innovative technology called XDM (X-ray Density Meas- manufacturing industry and the core technology was Mantex develops industrial bio-scanners that can measure urement). developed at the research institute Acreo. The product moisture, energy and density with QDXA (Quantitative has been developed together with world leading actors in Dual X-Ray Absorbtion) that deliver real time analysis of ______ORGANOCLICK the paper industry. organic materials used in industrial processes. OrganoClick manufactures and supplies a range of unique, environmentally friendly renewable materials and ______WATTGUARD ______MIDSUMMER bio-additives for use in the wood, textile, paper and Wattguard develops, markets, and sells simple, efficient Midsummer offers a proven technology for turnkey packaging industry. concepts for reducing electricity consumption and carbon production of flexible, lightweight solar cells and panels dioxide emissions in lighting-intensive environments. to the lowest manufacturing costs for a small-scale ______POWERCELL production in the solar market. ­Powercell’s mission is to offer our customers environmen- ______WATTY tally friendly power systems developed with unique fuel Watty has developed the first scalable, low-cost, solution ______MINESTO cell and reformer technology that is suitable for both for eliminating energy waste in every household and Minesto develops a new concept for tidal power plants existing and future fuel infrastructures. Their aim is to ______SOL VOLTICS R&D building in the world. called Deep Green. Deep Green is based on a fundamen- provide a unique fuel cell power system (an auxiliary Nanowire researchers along with Sol Voltaics engineers tally new principle for electricity generation from tidal power unit; APU) that allows our customers to utilize the demonstrated Wave Concentrated Photovoltaics (WCPV) ______XENETA currents. The power plant is applicable in areas where no existing fuel infrastructures without further damage to the in 2012. This concentrates the light waves by guiding Xeneta, enables anyone, anywhere, make smarter freight other known technology can operate cost effectively due environment. They believe that their system truly bridges those waved into the nanowires for absorption, with no decisions. They believe in actionable metrics, and if you to its unique ability to operate in low velocities. Minesto the gap between the infrastructure of today and that of mechanical or optical assistance. Sol Voltaics engineers cannot measure it – you cannot improve it. That’s why they expands the total marine energy potential and offers a tomorrow, by using tomorrow’s technology within today’s then focused on the development of materials and are assembling big data, crowdsourced from industry step change in cost for tidal energy. reality. processes for mass production of these high-performance stakeholders – feeding back real-time benchmarks and materials for solar cells. The result is a completely new unique market intelligence.

20 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 21 THIS ARTICLE WAS PAID FOR BY JERNKONTORET THIS ARTICLE WAS PAID FOR BY JERNKONTORET

snow reduces the snow-clearance Mats W. Lundberg, R&D specialist Sandvik Materials Technology. costs for the community and helps in fuel cells at Sandvik Materials “More efficient development of STEEL INDUSTRY REDUCES ITS CARBON reduce healthcare costs from Technology. vehicles in towns and cities in people slipping on the ice.” To demonstrate this relatively terms of materials and energy FOOTPRINT BY USING FUEL CELLS For both Luleå and the residents of unknown technology, which it is solutions is a must,” says Mattias Höganäs, district heating has estimated will be used increasingly Goldmann, CEO of the Swedish More and more municipalities are actively working on reducing their carbon footprint and success requires reduced both costs and emissions. worldwide, in 2014 thinktank Fores. “To achieve the ­adapting to changing conditions. The Nordic countries are playing an important role in reducing the carbon foot- Luleå and Höganäs have some of Sandvik Materials Technology ran a ambitious 2030 Secretariat targets the lowest energy costs in the pilot project together with in Sweden by 2030, we need to print of our towns and cities using expertise, technical solutions and knowhow that can be made available world- country. Sandviken Municipality using two switch to a vehicle fleet that is not wide. Less well known are developments in the Swedish steel industry, where surplus heat is being supplied to fuel-cell-powered cars, one fuel-cell dependent on fossil fuels.” municipal district heating systems and fuelcell technology is being developed for computers, vehicles and power THANKS TO well-developed district- truck and one mobile fuel station “And it is not just about fuels,” heating networks, Sweden is a for hydrogen in Sandvik’s says Anna-Karin Nyman, Director stations. This is speeding the transition to higher energy efficiency and creating more sustainable urban solutions. global leader in utilisation of waste industrial area. of Communications at heat from industry. This has a “Around the world work is in Jernkontoret, the Swedish Steel ccording to Magnus positive impact on both the climate progress on the creation of Producers´ Association.. “When we Pettersson, the energy and the economy. Calculations infrastructure for fuel-cell vehicles, need to expand coordinator at Höganäs show that nonutilised surplus heat and the idea behind the pilot infrastructure, AB, which supplies in the rest of Europe is equivalent project was to demonstrate the we will need surplus heat to Höganäs to about €500bn a year. technology and give as many high-quality Municipality’s district- Sandvik Materials Technology people as possible the chance to transport A ■ Anna-Karin Nyman, heating network: carries out a large part of its learn more about the possibilities systems for Jernkontoret. ■ “In our reduction and heat- business in Sandviken – a medium- of fuel cells,” says Lundberg. public treatment processes, where the sized Swedish industrial town. The transport, and the quality of the temperature is between 850 and company is one of the world’s CONTRIBUTING to a sustainable steel used will be crucial.” 1200 degrees Celsius, we have leading materials-technology society has been an important installed technology that utilises companies, and it has invested driving force for both the ANNA-KARIN NYMAN points to the the flue gases. These gases are heavily in the production of new company’s and the municipality’s Friends Arena construction project cooled down to 100‑150 degrees to materials for fuel cells – one of only commitment to the project. in Stockholm. “Use of high- heat water, which is then a few producers worldwide. “We are using our unique strength steel for the roof of distributed to the district-heating expertise in the field of materials Friends Arena could reduce its plant. Höganäs’ residual energy SOME OF THE WORLD’S top technology to make industrial weight by 13 per cent and can meet 90 per cent of the researchers in the field of materials processes safer and more efficient, emissions of greenhouse gases by requirement for Höganäs’ district- technology also work here, and and this will have a major impact 900 tonnes of CO2. Globally, use of heating network.” they have been researching and at the same time consume high-strength steel in structures The waste heat from Höganäs materials for fuel-cell technology fewer resources,” says Lundberg. like Friends Arena could reduce reduces the annual emissions for for over ten years. “Our production is also based on emissions of greenhouse gases by the municipality’s heating by “The hydrogen society used to recycled stainless steel, thus the about 150 Mt CO2. That is nearly 12,000 to 14,000 tonnes of carbon be a fantasy, but we are now seeing energy consumption in many of three times as much as the total dioxide. Höganäs delivers a total of both Japan and Germany take the our product areas can be reduced greenhouse-gas emissions in 40-50 million kWh of energy a first steps towards such a reality. by 30 to 40 per cent.” Sweden.” year to the district-heating plant. More renewable energy also means “Materials, design, energy ■ On the left Håkan Holmberg, marketing manager of Surface Technology, the unit within Sandvik District heating is adapted to Materials Technology that manufactures materials for fuel cells, and Mats W Lundberg, R&D special- a greater need for energy storage FUEL CELLS can also be used in efficiency and recycling are key local conditions, and is designed ist in fuel cells at Sandvik Materials Technology, on the right. ■ and smart electrical networks. energy systems for urban terms that we use constantly, and in different ways, depending on Hydrogen as an energy carrier can development, as well as in we are and have been a circular local energy resources. What resources that would otherwise be Johannesson, Swedish District then serve as energy storage, applications for mobile phones, economy for scrap processing since differentiates district heating from wasted. Heating Association’s communi- industrial gas and vehicle fuel computers and power stations. the 19th century,” says Nyman. “A other heating is the fact that cations manager. “And in Luleå rolled into one. Fuel cells then “The technology can basically be growing planet with growing cities district heating is a shared system “THE CHILDREN AT LULEÅ’S Kristallen underground heating coils have become an obvious part of the used to fuel everything that requires management of resources, whereby one person’s waste heat nursery school are kept warm been laid under the streets. These whole process – in other words a requires electricity ,” says and I think Swedish expertise and becomes another person’s heating. using energy from SSAB’s steel coils use heat from the steel highly efficient tool for reducing Lundberg, who manages fuel-cell quality may mean a lot for a more We heat each other using manufacture,” says Annika works. Keeping the ground free of the global carbon footprint,” says technology development work at resourceefficient model ofsociety.” ­

22 23 CHRISTINA PERSON

oday, Sweden is the EU leader in renewable energy ■ “AN INNOVATION COUNCIL WILL use and, in fact, uses one of BE LINKED TO THE PRIME MINIS- the highest percentages of renewable energy of any TER’S OFFICE WHICH, IN COOPERA- Tcountry in the world. TION WITH THE ­BUSINESS WORLD, Moreover, since 1990 Sweden has succeeded in reducing its carbon WILL INSURE THAT ­SWEDEN WILL BE dioxide emissions by a full 20 percent, at the same time as its economy has WELL POSITIONED WHEN IT COMES grown by almost 60 percent. This has been achieved through long-term TO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ” ■ efforts and by using smart, cost-effec- tive control measures that generate a lot of green technology and energy for the money invested. governance; how to find ways to chance to be a part of working life and SWEDEN’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS has assume joint responsibility across the community.” been a combination of general, national borders. At present, democ- cost-effective control measures and racy is limited to the nation state, but THE SIXTH AREA is competitiveness clearly-defined goals and ambitions. individual nations cannot solve these and expertise. “An innovation council It has combined effective legislation problems on their own.” will be linked to the Prime Minister’s and clear information with invest- Office which, in cooperation with the ments in research and innovation. THE SECOND AREA Persson describes business world, will insure that Sweden has also proven that it is is the green transition, which will Sweden will be well positioned when possible to break away from fossil- require major investments, new forms it comes to economic development,” fuel dependency and that it can play of both private and public investment, Persson continues. an important role in the global shift to and amended regulations and taxes Will we see a stronger Nordic a climate-neutral society. One piece of that support it. policy from the Swedish government the puzzle in Sweden’s work in the “The third area is employment in that supports sustainable and green area is its environmental policy. The the future. This is another of the technology development? overall goal of the environmental poli- government’s main priorities. The “The Nordic region and Nordic ■ Kristina Persson. ■ cy is to pass on to the next generation comprehensive technological changes cooperation are part of the strategic a society in which the major environ- that will occur will see an increasing agenda. Many of the really major mental problems facing Sweden have number of jobs disappear. The problems are global and must be been solved. The policy states that value-creation of the future must lead solved in cooperation with other every sector of society must assume to increased employment, but that countries. The EU is an important its share of responsibility. Public won’t happen automatically. It is platform for achieving this, but Six Areas of Major ­ agencies, organizations, enterprises, politicians’ job to make sure it consists of 28 countries, which makes and individuals must devote more happens by steering development it hard to make decisions quickly attention to environmental issues and towards full employment.” enough. Together, the Nordic region sustainable development. Many small can exercise a much greater influence Strategic Importance decisions affect the environment, so THE FOURTH AREA, according to both in the EU and in relation to information, education, and evalua- Persson, is income redistribution and other major regions than if we act tion are increasingly necessary. welfare. “Inequality has quickly alone. What’s more, we can better Although a new government came to power in Sweden in 2014, the increased, and this is damaging to our manage the major green transition KRISTINA PERSSON is a key figure in society in many ways. Inequality we are facing if we cooperate on country’s strong commitment to climate change issues is unabated. Sweden’s ongoing efforts to become a contributes to weaker economic innovation, technology procurement, In less than 40 years, Sweden has gone from having a heavily oil and sustainable society based on renew- development. It also strains and and the development of new regula- able resources. She is Sweden’s damages trust in society.” tory frameworks, to name a few. ­coal-dependent ­energy system to a system that runs on almost 50 Minister for Strategic Development The fifth area is integration and We can and must lead the way and ­percent renewable energy. We met with Sweden’s Minister for Strate- and Nordic Cooperation. migration: “Integration policy needs spur others on if we are going to “First and foremost, I see six areas to be more effective. It shouldn’t take realize the goal of a fossil-free gic ­Development and Nordic Cooperation, Kristina Persson, who has that are of major strategic importance months—or years—before people society by 2050,” Persson con­- ­pinpointed six areas that are of great strategic importance for the future. for the future. The first is global who come to our country have the cludes.

24 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 25 CITIES AND MAYORS LEADING THE CLIMATE ECONOMY – THE ROAD TO PARIS AND BEYOND

Governments around the world have failed to lay the Cities and Mayors ­foundation for a global climate agreement. There are many doubts regarding­ the possible success of the leading the new Paris Summit in 2015. How can cities contribute? climate economy

26 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 27 CITIES AND MAYORS LEADING THE CLIMATE ECONOMY – THE ROAD TO PARIS AND BEYOND Water and wind important issues on Gotland In many respects the Swedish island of Gotland has more in common with other islands in the Baltic Sea than with mainland Sweden, and it shares many of the same possibilities and challenges with other islands. “Access to fresh water and wind power are two important issues,” says Björn Jansson, mayor and chair of the board of Region Gotland and the person welcoming you to the Nordic Mayors Event in Visby, on Gotland.

otland’s biggest town, for the environment.” strength in the climate change efforts. Visby, is hosting the Wind power is an important issue “Small communities can have a big Nordic Mayors Event, at on Gotland, and Björn can see how impact and can do a lot on their own. which thirty or so mayors production can be developed, both to Municipal autonomy in Sweden allows are gathering under the meet Gotland’s needs and for export. us scope for our own initiatives. It Gpolitical umbrella of Almedalen Week But as an island it also faces challeng- gives us a strength that not everyone to pressure the world’s politicians es, access to fresh water being one of else has. Furthermore, as an island we ahead of the UN’s climate change them. “Our water is really important, can carry out research projects here conference in Paris at the end of the and we’re working hard on ensuring that would be hard to implement in year. access to fresh water and improving other contexts and other locations.” “Towns and cities play an impor- its quality.” tant role in the work of preventing Björn points out that islands such 3 GOTLAND FACTS 7 climate change,” says Björn Jansson, as Gotland often have more in chairman of the board of the local common with each other than with The province of Gotland consists authority Region Gotland, and a the mainland. “That is why collabora- of a single municipality, which representative of the Social Demo- tion is so important, as exemplified by since 1st January 2011 has been crats. He emphasises the importance the work of the Baltic Seven, a called Region Gotland. Gotland of local work, and recognises the conglomeration of seven Baltic has no separate county council. significance of non-profit organisa- islands that support each other and Instead Region Gotland is tions in these efforts. “Non-profit lend greater weight to contacts with responsible both for primary forces can collaborate with municipal the EU and other bodies.” municipal responsibilities and for county council responsibilities like ones to produce far reaching effects, Despite Gotland being the biggest healthcare and public transport. as shown not least by the work on Baltic island, its population of Responsibility for regional expansion of the internet on Gotland. approximately 57,000 is small. Even development also lies with Region I think something similar can be done so, Björn thinks this could be a Gotland.

28 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 29 CITIES AND MAYORS LEADING THE CLIMATE ECONOMY – THE ROAD TO PARIS AND BEYOND

Cities take the lead in the work with climate change

The C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, now in its 10th year, connects more than 75 of the world’s greatest cities, representing 550+ million ­people and one quarter of the global economy. Mark Watts is the Executive Director of C40. “Our sole focus is to increase the cities ambitions and to drive climate change and urban action that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks, while increasing the health, wellbeing and economic opportunities of urban citizens”, says Watts.

y 2030 six out of every ten minimize the risk associated with edge management & communications. people on earth will be living global climate change and reduce or C40 is also positioning cities as a in urban areas. This makes even avoid the health, environmental leading force for climate action cities part of the climate and economic impacts that could around the world, defining and change problem. But it also result.” amplifying their call to national Bprovides cities with the possibility of But Mark Watts points out that not governments for greater support and ■ being part of the solution. only renown leaders in cities with autonomy in creating a sustainable Mark Watts, C40 Executive Director presents Manuel Sanroma, CEO of IMI (Municipal IT Institute of Barcelona; from left to right) with the City Climate “More than half of all this planets over three million inhabitants is a future. Leadership Award in the category “Intelligent City Infrastructure”. ■ population is living in cities and it part of the C40 initiative. They use knowledge‐sharing and accounts for 70 % of global CO2 metrics‐driven implementation to C40 networks facilitate dialogue The United Nations Climate Change are proposing climate actions that emissions. That’s why cities have to “PORTLAND, STOCKHOLM and achieve measurable and meaningful amongst city officials. Conference, COP21 or CMP11 will be will take effect after 2020, known as play a major part in the work with Copenhagen is a part of C40 because reductions in both greenhouse gas “This builds trusted relationships, held in Paris, France in November intended nationally determined climate change”, says Mark Watts, they have proven to be front runners emissions and risks associated with which in turn ensures that ideas, sol- later this year. contributions. Executive Director of C40. in finding working solutions that have climate change, along with realising utions, lessons, questions, and even Mark Watts sees opportunities for “Cities’ climate actions to reduce He describes how C40 is bringing huge impact”. the local benefits of these solutions friendly competition can flow freely cities to make an impact. GHGs and climate risks are bolder, the world’s megacities together in Set actionable, measurable goals (cleaner air and water, lower energy and responsively to cities’ needs. “First we need to be showing that more impactful, implemented faster, meaningful exchanges help speed up at the individual city level and the costs, less traffic congestion, higher Rather than end at a case study or change and reducing emission is a at a lower cost and with less resources the global adoption of climate policies organisational level to ensure actions quality of life, longer lifespans, green report, C40 Networks create conver- possibility if you put your mind to than if they were to go it alone. No and programs that have been demon- and outputs are equating to success. jobs and green businesses). sations, which enable cities to tailor it. That’s a central part of tackling other organisation facilitates such strated to work in one or more C40 is working across multiple their own actions to their unique situ- the problem. Second we need to deep connections amongst city staff member cities. sectors and initiative areas. C40 MARK WATTS: ”We organise peer to ations, and band together to use their achieve an ambitious treaty in Paris across 50+ countries, 20 time zones “We enable the world’s megacities convenes networks of cities providing peer exchange in a safe environment collective power to access partnership in order to start the process towards and 26 languages to accelerate local to be better prepared for climate a suite of services i rts, including: where the focus is on tackle problems resources, including technical and 2020.” action with major global impact”, change and to, wherever possible, direct technical assistance, knowl- and share knowledge”. financial support”, Watts says. Countries from around the world Watts concludes.

30 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 31 CITIES AND MAYORS LEADING THE CLIMATE ECONOMY – THE ROAD TO PARIS AND BEYOND

Finland on the road to sustainable­ industries­ in 2050 Carbon-neutral industry is one of Sitra’s focus areas contributing to Finlands aim to be resource-wise and carbon-neutral in 2050. Sitra helps Finnish businesses adapt to the demands of a carbon-neutral society. “Carbon-neutral industry is a programme that accelerates systemic change”, says Senior Lead Tiina Kähö who is leading the focus area at the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra.

itra is a public innovation fund aimed at building calls for new businesses, new business models, innovation a successful Finland for tomorrow. They are as well as a culture and leadership together with strategies forward thinking and anticipate social change that have the right mindset and understanding of the ■ “Finland has and its effect on people. Their activities promote challenges we face. We need forerunners who see business made a commit- new operating models and stimulate business opportunities in this challenge. But we need to hurry”, says ment to be carbon Sthat aims at sustainable well-being. Tiina Kähö. neutral by 2050. Reducing our Tiina Kähö is in charge of the focus area “Carbon-neu- tral industry”, which was established in 2014. This focus SHE ADDRESSES COMPANIES as key players in achieving greenhouse gas area helps Finnish businesses in adapting to the demands climate targets. emissions by 80 to 95% until 2050 will of a carbon-neutral society. The aim is to help major “They can produce innovations, products and solutions do this. Companies companies adopt the best solutions for ensuring that their that help the move towards a carbon-neutral society. and industry need practices, products and services become low-carbon. The Doing so also enhances their competitiveness. All indus- to transform operating model envisaged by such companies will set an trial activities – from material and energy flows to produc- themselves example for other organisations and encourage them to tion – must be included in the transition.” completely in order follow suit. Kähö points out that the active participation of leading to reach these industrial companies in the transition process will goals, and Sitra will TIINA HAS A LONG experience of a range of expert and expedite the required change and support the switch to supply building management roles in various Finnish and international renewable energy and low-carbon solutions. blocks that help environmental consulting organisations. Tiina’s work with “The development of low-carbon products and services support this”, says the private sector has strengthened her conviction that will create important export opportunities, enhance Tiina Kähö, Senior Lead for Carbon- ecological sustainability lies at the core of a successful competitiveness and lower the risks related to the transi- neutral Industry corporate strategy. Carbon-neutrality will be fundamental tion process. Solving global environmental problems is a at Sitra. ■ to sustainable business activities in the future. lucrative business and a major opportunity for Finland. “It’s a big challenge we’re facing. Reaching these goals Carbon neutrality provides companies with a strategic

32 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 33 competitive edge. Those companies that are among the will be, an important strategic driver for their competitive- first to understand this will be the most successful in the ness. This is a particularly strongly held view in the energy future. If big firms fail to get on board, the transition will and environmental sectors, as well as the forest and paper not take place in time.” industry. The metal industry is the least concerned about climate change. Furthermore, 83% of Finnish companies IN 2014, SITRA LAUNCHED a project in which a group of regard climate change as significant to their business leading Finnish companies committed themselves to environment. providing the solutions needed to take Finland closer to becoming a carbon-neutral society. The project builds on ANOTHER SIGN of Finnish companies’ increased aware- the national Energy and Climate Roadmap 2050 from a ness of the importance of climate change is Climate business perspective. The operating model drawn up by Leadership Council formed by Sitra and major Finnish the participating companies will set an example for others corporations such as Fortum, Neste, St1, Outotec, Kemira, and encourage them to follow suit. and Nokia, www.clc.fi/en. The Council aims to boost the “Finland has made a commitment to be carbon neutral overall competitiveness of Finland’s business sector and by 2050. Reducing our greenhouse gas emissions by 80 to research organisations, helping them prepare for the 95% until 2050 will do this. Companies and industry need threats posed by climate change and dwindling natural to transform themselves completely in order to reach resources, while priming them to benefit from the related these goals, and Sitra will supply building blocks that help business opportunities. support this. The all-embracing transition will have an “Our city projects increase awareness and create impact on the whole of society. It will occur slowly and concrete operation models within towns while connecting require long-term investments. Solutions we choose today people, products and solutions.” need to be sustainable in 2050, as well. As a first step, Kähö gives examples of pilot projects in Finnish cities businesses, production and products should become that help innovations find a platform for large scale low-carbon, significantly lowering the existing emission testing. levels.” One of these cities is Turku that has been engaging in The carbon-neutral industry project will also be co-creation initiatives with companies like Siemens. Turku producing some background reports to provide decision- aims to be carbon-neutral by 2040 and has started a makers with comparative data and facts, while helping strategic co-operation with Sitra in order to better reach companies in making the transition towards carbon this ambitious goal. The Helsinki Capital Region is another neutrality. example. She has high hopes for new, cleantech innovations and points out that Finnish companies have a long track record “COMPANIES need a reference area on an international of international competitiveness and an ability to meet scale, in which new low-carbon solutions will be designed new demands with front end innovations. for the circular economy, where innovations will be tested and cleantech expertise will be showcased. The Helsinki “OUR COUNTRY HAS a long history of high-tech innova- Capital Region can provide a suitable setting for all such tions that have set new world standards and pushed the activities.” progress forward. What we need is a transition to sustain- Sitra supports the cities and key companies in the able cleantech innovations. With our competence in Helsinki Capital Region in the creation of a leading research and development, and highly skilled workforce Smart&Clean metropolitan area. They are also lending 3 FACTS 7 we have the right elements to make this transition into their support to the achievement of the objectives set in reality and reach our goals.” the Finnish government’s Strategic programme for More on Sitra’s initiatives: Carbon-neutral Industry project: Great ideas needs funding and Tiina Kähö points out cleantech, aimed at making Finland a global leader in http://bit.ly/1KbRpDl more collaborations with international partners as a way cleantech by 2020. Helsinki region Smart&Clean of finding investors. initiative: “We have excellent companies and a working ecosys- TIINA KÄHÖ sees her work at Sitra as building new http://bit.ly/1KbRuqv Resource wisdom model: tem for innovation and development, but we need to be operating models and ways of collaborating between http://bit.ly/1KbRw1K more open, especially in the energy and infrastructure companies, state and cities to boost cleantech solutions. http://bit.ly/1BA1Xco utility cloud. With an open infrastructure we have more to “These models will require constant fine tuning and Circular economy project: gain.” need to be repeated and multiplied with great projects and http://bit.ly/1fzEGgT Finnish companies have already recognised the an ambitious approach together with different partners http://www.sitra.fi/en potential represented by climate change and its mitiga- and collaborations. That’s one reason why we are attend- tion: based on a new survey commissioned by Sitra from ing the Nordic Mayors’ Event in Almedalen with leading ■ The Helsinki Capital Region is becoming a genuine global reference area for intelligent and ecologically sustainable market research company Taloustutkimus, the majority of Finnish cities such as Turku, Vaasa, and Espoo”, Tiina Kähö solutions. Helsinki, Espoo and Vantaa have launched a large-scale Smart & Clean partnership project in collaboration Finnish companies (75%) find that carbon neutrality is, or concludes. with Sitra. ■

34 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 35 CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Circular ­economy can help the environment The circular economy is the way to stop a staggering inefficiency in the way that we manage the earth’s resources – leading to increased ­pollution, loss of ecosystems and substantial losses of value with each ­product disposed. This is the view of, among others, the Swedish opinion maker and author Anders Wijkman.

alls for a new model of production and con- Economy Package” was presented in July 2014. Juncker sumption are becoming more frequent. The Commission decided, to withdraw the proposal, under the circular economy has been attracting attention pretext of “deregulation”. After heavy criticism the of key business leaders and policy-makers, Commission has made a commitment to re-launch the pro- spurred by a series of studies by the Ellen posal. CMacArthur Foundation – demonstrating that a circular economy makes perfect business sense. ONE OF THE OPINION MAKERS that agree with the ope- In the EU, the legislative proposal “The Circular ning statement is Anders Wijkman. He is a member of the

36 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 37 CIRCULAR ECONOMY

Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences, the World Future ■ Council and the International Resource Panel as well as “JOBS AND CLIMATE co-president of the Club of Rome and chairman of the CLEAR WINNERS IN A Swedish Association of Recycling Industries. He is worried about today’s economy that builds on a CIRCULAR ECONOMY”■ ’fast turn-over’ principle, which often seems to promote early obsolescence. “The faster we replace our gadgets, the better, it seems – applying not only to phones but to most items we consume. The consequence is a staggering inefficiency in the way that we manage the earth’s resources, leading to increased pollution, loss of ecosystems and substantial challenge, there are very strong reasons not to view losses of value with each product disposed. A new Club of resource efficiency and moving towards a circular econo- Rome study highlights that moving to a ‘circular economy’ my as a threat – rather the opposite”, Wijkman tells us. by using and re-using, rather than using up, would yield This week, the Club of Rome presents the first in a multiple benefits,” says Wijkman. series of reports in 2015: a Swedish case study, showing His proposition is a circular economy, where products how a circular economy could contribute significantly to are designed for ease of recycling, reuse, disassembly and building economic competitiveness, increasing jobs and remanufacturing. Mr Wijkman also stresses that this cutting CO2 emissions. The Swedish case study analyses should replace the traditional, linear ’take, make & the effects of three decoupling strategies underpinning a dispose’ model that has dominated the economy so far. circular economy (renewable energy, energy efficiency and Wijkman tells us that the ’circular economy’ concept material efficiency) through an input/output simulation stems from the Club of Rome report ’Limits to Growth’ in model. 1972. It concludes that by 2030, carbon emissions could be “This was one of the first voices to recognize that a cut by almost 70% if a key set of circular economy policy combination of resource depletion and pollution, if not measures were adopted. The number of additional jobs tackled, would ultimately bring the global economy down”, would likely exceed 100,000 – cutting unemployment by says Wijkman. more than a third. Caring for what has already been Today, more than forty years later, he points out that produced – through repair, maintenance, upgrading and we are at a crossroad. According to Wijkman, “Wasteful remanufacturing – is by far more labour-intensive as lifestyles, primarily in the rich North, have used up most of compared to mining and manufacturing in highly auto- the environmental space. With a growing population and mated and robotized facilities. much-needed increases of per-capita income in low-in- The Swedish case study will be complemented by come countries, technology in combination with policy similar studies of the Dutch and Spanish economies later reforms are the only chances we have to bring down the this year. environmental impacts. Luckily, there are many opportu- Mr Wijkman: “Although it is premature to draw nities for technology innovation, often complemented by EU-wide conclusions based on the Swedish study alone, behaviour change. But policies to promote such changes the findings of the study are a clear indication that a are rare. Almost all focus has been on promoting labour circular economy is not contrary to the Juncker Commis- productivity, instead of material productivity”. sion’s agenda for competitiveness and growth – quite the There have been many witnesses of how the business opposite. 2015 is a key window of opportunity to start a community I the past often has seen environmental process of modernization of the EU economy, while policy-making as a threat to competitiveness. making a substantial contribution to boosting jobs as well “While competition in a globalized economy is a as tackling climate change ahead of COP 21 in Paris.”

38 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 39 COMMENTARY

• Unfortunately, the global climate of trust and cooperation investments (many of them in cities) that lie ahead can between nations has in many ways deteriorated. Political have an impact. What’s more, the Club of Rome has shown Cities show the way tensions (caused by war and crises) and global economic that large potential profits can be derived from a more and social imbalances have continued to increase and circular approach to industrial processes and commodity parts of the multilateral system are weakened due to flows. political lock-ins and lack of resources. on the road to Paris – Nordic greentech entrepreneurs are still absolutely ON A NUMBER OF OTHER FRONTS, the situation has world-class. There is a constant stream of innovative actually improved since 2009. Technological progress has companies that develop commercially viable solutions to In less than six months, world governments will meet in made renewable energy (solar and wind power) a competi- the world’s sustainability challenges. tive and rapidly-expanding component in our energy Paris for the United Nations Climate Change Conference. 11 supply. With rapidly falling prices for solar power and with – Civil society organizations have mobilized citizens as December 2015 is the deadline that has been set for arriving improved power storage and transmission, more and more never before, initiating major campaigns against climate of the energy systems can become more climate friendly. change. Every year over one billion people participate in at a global climate agreement that can be signed by all major At the same time electric cars and plug-in hybrids are WWF’s Earth Hour, and a global divestment campaign to greenhouse gas emitters, including both developed and spreading, and sensor technology and energy efficiency in halt investment in fossil fuel-based energy companies is products and systems has improved. This energy shift spreading rapidly. developing countries. If Paris 2015 is successful, it will be opens up fascinating possibilities, but resource, environ- a major step towards sustainable development and a safer mental and health aspects must not be underestimated, for – Consumers increasingly choose to alter their consump- example when it comes to large-scale production and tion patterns. We buy low energy lightbulbs and hybrid environment for all. usage of batteries. cars, we choose organic and locally produced food, we begin to even share cars and tools between us. good agreement will not happen on its own. If the world, we see how climate change, together with other IT IS ALSO CLEAR that progress on the climate front does governments are to take bold actions, they must environment-related changes is affecting the ecological not depend solely on what our governments decide; – Religious communities and leaders have also taken feel both the pressure and the support from system, and therefore economic and social systems. The non-state actors play a crucial role. action. Swedish bishops have contributed to the debate on voters, businesses, civil society, scientists and current droughts in California and Australia, the heat wave climate change and, just last week, the Pope published a many other stakeholders. This is why our seven in India and the water crisis of the American Southwest – Cities and regions are taking far-reaching decisions radical Encyclical on the environment — a unequivocal Aorganizations (a research institute, two consultancy firms, and the Middle East is a bad omen of a possible new when it comes to climate and the environment, regardless exhortation to the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics to take an association, two think tanks and an NGO) have joined normal. We see dying coral reefs, warmer and more acidic of what governments do. They collaborate in new net- action against climate change. forces to push for more climate action in the run-up to the oceans, rapidly retreating summer Arctic sea ice, and works, learn from one another, involve civil society and negotiations in Paris. We are anchoring our initiative in the decreasing yields of basic food crops such as wheat and put pressure on governments. Urban populations are IT IS UNDER THESE circumstances that our seven organiza- Almedalen political event in Visby, Sweden, and a series of corn. We used to talk about risks faced by our grandchil- growing around the world (every week by 1.5 million tions are gathering mayors and leaders from over 20 seminars and meetings on 28-29 June 2015. Cities are at dren and future generations, but we now see a changed people), and if the cities are built and operated cleverly, Nordic cities, along with experts and representatives from the center of our initiative: their importance has grown as reality already today. At the same time, carbon dioxide this urbanization can actually contribute to a better around the world, to learn from one another, to share economic forces and as players on the political arena. emissions are increasing at an unrelenting, and even climate, which Global Utmaning shows in its report on experiences and together make a show of strength on the Many cities around the Nordic countries and in the world increasing, pace. sustainable cities. road to Paris. have already taken a stand for ambitious climate goals. For many, the words “climate change conference” are a • Climate science has also evolved: researchers now know a – Major large progressive global corporations (some of reminder of the climate conference in Copenhagen in lot more than they did just five years ago. Not everything which with Nordic roots), are changing their way of Bo Andersson, Secretary General, The Norden Association December 2009. That conference was not the success has been investigated exhaustively and fully explained working. They are choosing renewable energy sources, Johan Hassel, CEO, and Alexander Crawford, Global many had hoped for, since the participating governments (and will likely never be), but more and more data is being investing differently and reviewing their production and Utmaning could not agree. Of course, there is a risk that the same collected, analytical methods are continuously being supply chains. They are also helping consumers make Johan L. Kuylenstierna, Executive Director, Stockholm situation might be repeated in Paris in December, but we refined, and impacts can be studied and predicted more better decisions that reduce emissions and protect the Environment Institute are hopefully in better shape now compared to 2009. and more accurately. And when natural and social scien- environment. Mats Lindgren, CEO & Founder, Kairos Future tists come together, they find that, as stated in the latest Jens Olejak, South Pole Group THE SITUATION TODAY is more grave than it was five years IPCC-report: “climate-change impacts are projected to – Through the New Climate Economy project, the Stock- Anders Wijkman, Co-President, Club of Rome ago in three ways: slow down economic growth, make poverty reduction holm Environment Institute has shown that economic Håkan Wirtén, Secretary General, WWF Sweden • As we well know, the actual climate and environmental more difficult, further erode food security, and prolong development and climate and environmental progress can Kaj Embrén, Program Manager, Nordic Road to Paris and conditions are even more dire now. In many places around existing and create new poverty traps.” go hand in hand. If made wisely, the large infrastructure Beyond

40 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 41 WWF WWF: The cities hold the key to a sustainable society

The cities have a key role in working towards sustainable societies. Innova- tion is high in many places, but Carina Borgström-Hansson, expert ecologi- cal footprint on the WWF in Sweden think the Nordic cities need to think outside the box to find solutions that have global effects. »Nordic cities are particularly well placed to take large steps. That makes demands greater on them»,she says.

he cities of the world car sharing programs. activities in this area, for example, cities contribute to a Seoul serves as a role model for how they procure or otherwise sustainable society. WWF fast-growing cities in a rapidly stimulate investment in renewable acknowledge this. The developing Southeast Asia, as well as energy. work has been in many for the rest of the world. An ambitious WWF collaborates since 2012 with casesT gone beyond the national initiative by the city to reduce the organization ICLEI (Local climate commitments made. There- greenhouse gas emissions by 10 Governments for Sustainability). fore it is important to use the work million tons and to achieve 20 per ICLEI reach through its large network already done as an example, and to cent electricity self-reliance by 2020 out to many cities and their interna- put pressure on nations to do more. won high acclaim by the jury. tionally recognized platform Carbon One way to highlight good This year 163 cities in the follow- Climate Registry is used in the example is the WWF’s Earth Hour City ing 16 countries participated in the challenge for the reporting of data Challenge (EHCC) that gives cities and Earth Hour City Challenge; Brazil, from participating cities. counties an opportunity to act role Canada, Colombia, Finland, France, During the ICLEI meeting in Seoul models for sustainable development India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, this spring, further steps were taken Seoul, South Korea was named the Republic of Korea, South Africa, when they agreed on a common year’s Global Earth Hour Capital 2015. Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Thailand platform for ICLEI, C40 and UCLG to The city impressed an international and USA. report the results of urban sustain- jury of experts with its comprehensive The theme for EHCC’s urban ability work for it to be compared approach to tackling climate change efforts to move towards a 100 percent with the national commitments. and its determination to ramp up its renewable and sustainable energy “It means we will be able to use of renewable energy. The city’s supply within a few decades. Also this monitor and evaluate the sustainabil- approach to radically reducing year focuses WWF also more specifi- ity work being done in cities across emissions includes actions such as cally on how cities contribute to the world in a coherent manner”, says allocating a realistic budget for moving money from fossil to renew- Carina Borgström-Hansson, expert increasing the use of solar power by able energy solutions. Cities that ecological footprint at WWF in residents, reducing transport participated in the last round of EHCC Sweden. emissions through greener fuels, will have the opportunity to further The evaluation of candidate cities building more bus lanes and through demonstrate their commitment and focuses on a number of aspects that Foto: Peter Krahl Miljöförvaltningen

42 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES FACTS together show an ambitious, inspir- renewable and sustainable energy. In addition, the City of Gothen- water, energy and waste management. and communities. With our good 3 7 ing, holistic and credible work on This year’s climate town in 2015 burg have managed to reduce the “The example of green bonds show position, we should in the Nordic sustainable urban development, Sweden became Gothenburg. environmental impact of consump- an interesting solution to a problem countries to take more responsibility EHCC including commitments to move “The City of Gothenburg under- tion through behavioral change and that could prevent interesting projects and to think outside the box “. The Earth Hour City Challenge is a year-long towards a 100 percent renewable stand that great challenges require was in 2013 the first in the dominions financing. A good project must have The cities that want to be acknowl- competition among cities to promote renew- energy and measures to support the great efforts, and that all forces must of green bonds. Now is also the first in the funding to be carried out and not edged for their work also needs to able energy and prepare for climate change. dissemination of climate-friendly work together. Therefore, they have the Nordic countries to use the stay because of lack of money. think outside the boundries of both Cities that participate are recognized for their efforts in spreading the global movement to urban solutions. In addition, they been included in several networks and framework for green bonds as bank Moreover, the example of the need for city and nation. create more sustainable, resilient cities and look at integrated, relevant and partnerships to learn from each other, SEB has developed together with the equal dimensions of soft and social “Cities that works with solutions compete for the title of Earth Hour Capital as climate-smart solutions to human make common cause and turn their World Bank, WWF and a number of innovations of technology. Above all, and innovations that can have global well as grants from WWF. needs, particularly accommodation, heads together - ranging from the Swedish investors. As part of its Sweden is an engineering country effects and plan on finding partner- energy security, mobility and food. largest wind power plant to the environmental program is now with a strong focus on technological ships outside their own city have more UCLG United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) This year was a particular focus on modern city buses, “says Borgström- planning the city to seek funding for innovation, but we risk forgetting opportunities to get noticed,” says represents and defends the interests of local measures to increase investment in Hansson. various projects in the transport, innovations that change the behaviors Carina Borgström-Hansson. governments on the world stage, regardless of the size of the communities they serve. Headquartered in Barcelona, the organisa- tion’s stated mission is: To be the united voice and world advocate of democratic local self-government, promot- ing its values, objectives and interests, through cooperation between local govern- ments, and within the wider international community. www.uclg.org

ICLEI ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability is the world’s leading network of over 1,000 cities, towns and metropolises committed to building a sustainable future. By helping our Members to make their cities and regions sustainable, low-carbon, resilient, ecomobile, biodiverse, resource- efficient and productive, healthy and happy, with a green economy and smart infrastruc- ture, they impact over 20% of the world’s urban population. www.iclei.org

Compact of mayors The Compact of Mayors is the world’s largest cooperative effort among mayors and city of- ficials to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, track progress, and prepare for the impacts of climate change. The Compact of Mayors will drive more aggressive city climate actions and reaffirm existing targets while capturing the signifi- cance of these efforts through a consistent, transparent public reporting of cities’ climate data. The data collected through the Com- pact of Mayors will become the evidence base we need to quantify the greenhouse gas impact of city action www.compactofmayors.org

■ Seoul, Sydkorea. Foto: Seoul Metropolitan Government ■

44 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 45 OPINION

ities currently account for 70% of the world’s MAYORS ARE ALSO UTILIZING their environmental and greenhouse gas emissions, half the world’s climate initiatives to engage business and attract young population (increasing to 80% by 2050) and creative workers with similar values. Cities like San Jose, three-quarters of global economic activity. CA are building their economic development strategies Therefor cities can be the most significant around sustainable development and cleantech industry Why are Cities Cactors in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, especially growth as evidenced by their GreenPrint for Silicon in working together. Mayor’s have developed aggressive Valley and Prospect Silicon Valley demonstration facil- targets and climate action plans and have been creating ity. Vancouver has built it’s brand on the “Greenest City increasingly larger knowledge sharing networks to in the world by 2020” campaign. In San Francisco, collaboratively address the challenge. Examples of some the Business Council on Climate Change, a pilot project important? of these commitments include; 1) Copenhagen’s Carbon of the UN Global Compact, has brought together over Neutral plan by 2025, 2) 17 cities under the Carbon 100 companies with aggressive climate initiatives to Neutral Cities Alliance committing to 80% reductions of support the cities climate action plan. From an experi- National governments have been discussing the issues and possible GHGs by 2050, 3) cities like San Francisco committing mental point of view, cities are encouraging entrepre- to 100% renewable energy by 2020. Cities are a key neurship and building innovation districts to develop the ­solutions to climate related solutions for decades and still have not come stakeholder in the climate dialog as they are more ecosystem for these new businesses to interact with each to binding multi-lateral agreements on targets and Green House Gas nimble than state and national elected officials and other and thrive. In the future there could be increased Mayors have direct accountability to constituents. Cities focus in these areas to focus on social innovation and (GHG) reduction commitments. Overall the challenge is to set targets also have more incentives to collaborate based on environmental business with demonstrations of emerg- and timelines in the negotiations that are aggressive enough to reduce sharing similar challenges and collectively can have an ing policies in urban agriculture, eco-districts, sharing impactful voice to encourage national negotiators to be economy, new transportation alternatives and renewable GHG emissions to meet the increasing threats to global society of more aggressive with there commitments based on energy. ­climate change. Scientific consensus is that limiting the average global actions they are taking at local levels. This year in Paris cities will have an increased en- These city commitments are being made possible by gagement as United Cities and Local Governments surface temperature increase to 2 degrees Celsius over pre-industrial av- increasingly larger and more connected knowledge (UCLG) will be holding a parallel event during COP 21. erage will avoid catastrophic climate change impacts. sharing networks for cities. One example, C40 Cities UCLG will bring together 1000 local-level representa- Climate Leadership Group is made of the largest global tives from around the Summit of Cities and Local cities with aggressive climate action initiatives, has Governments on climate change at Paris City Hall, the established a goal of reducing member’s GHG emissions conclusions of which will be presented to the COP 21. by 248 million tons by 2020. Others climate and Mayor focused networks include: Covenant of Mayors (Europe), James Hanusa, Director of Urban Innovation Exchange, Conference of Mayors (US), ICLEI – Local Governments San Francisco, USA for Sustainability, Urban Sustainability Directors Network and 100 Resilient Cities.

WHAT CAN MAYOR’S DO? Mayor’s are in the unique position to affect change at the local level through policy, incentives, engagement and experimentation. For example, mayor’s can control the public purchasing to effect city vehicle fleets (hybrid- electric vehicle), encourage energy generation on public buildings (solar rooftops) and mandate energy efficiency (LED streetlights). They can also direct changes to the 3 MY FOCUS AT ALMEDALEN 7 built environment such as Paris’s new policy that all new rooftops must be covered by solar or a green roof, estab- lishing new buildings baselines as Leadership in Energy I plan on talking about leading cities climate and Environmental Design (LEED) certified and imple- initiatives and the next wave of smart cities as well as emergent and exponential technologies menting density requirements. Increasingly Mayor’s are and decentralized systems. We will also be scaling innovative solutions like Bus Rapid Transit, talking about developments which started in Latin America, and now has a growing in the lead up to the December UN conference network of cities rolling out this solution to public in Paris and trends in finance, sharing economy, transit around the world. (http://brtdata.org/#/loca- and technology that can have an impact on James Hanusa. tion). local and global climate challenges.

46 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 47 CROWDSOURCING

Crowdsourcing – On New Conditions­ for ­Local ­Development

After travelling 90 minutes from the county’s capital, Luleå, in the heart of Arctic Sweden’s Lapland, I finally arrive at the Swedish hinterland’s best-kept secret, Vuollerim. And, as suspected, it is more than just the ­famous Northern Lights that are lighting up this remote community’s ­development and that have enticed international networks to choose ­Vuollerim as the venue for Crowdsourcing Week.

he fact that the news of beats even faster when the conversa- for us to get Crowdsourcing Week to wthe this tiny community’s tion turns to Vuollerim’s multifaceted Vuollerim,” explains Eva-Lena development has reached development. Around 40 non-profit Skalstad from the Lapland Vuollerim business developers, organizations and 60 companies have company. universities and investors set up shop in this village with 800 The spread of the news about T the world over can be seen as a result residents: proof as good as any of vital Vuollerim’s development to a major of the brave new world we now live in, social development. international network like Crowd- where the Internet of Things touches Crowdsourcing Week’s arrival in sourcing Week is largely a result of the even rural areas. How can the social Vuollerim is something that surprises networking and Internet-driven model now being developed in neither Nekaj nor the event’s other society we now live in. “Naturally, we Vuollerim, which has inspired both international delegates. For Nekaj, it’s need to travel and keep in contact locals and global social developers, only natural. “Our role is to find with people who share our ambi- also inspire today’s decision-makers? places and people who drive social tions,” says Skalstad. Founder of Crowdsourcing Week, development forward,” he says, and Nonetheless, it’s not always easy Epi Ludvik Nekaj from Singapore, adds: “Vuollerim is the place political to get traditional stakeholders in the takes a walk through Vuollerim after leaders should be looking to”. municipality and region to accept an three days of intensive discussion. The idea of holding a top-level interactive and inspirational social Nekaj’s feelings about what is driving meeting in Vuollerim came to Nekaj model like the one Vuollerim’s Vuollerim forward are unmistakeable. during Crowdsourcing Week Europe, residents have created. Based on the What’s more, his Singaporean heart held in October 2014. “It took a year conversations and dialogues held

48 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 49 investing heavily in geothermal FACTS FACTS 3 7 energy. At the centre of this alterna- 3 7 tive energy development lies Swedish Examples of projects, companies and Crowdsourcing Week organizations­ in Vuollerim (http://neighbor- national hydropower company – Programme in Vuollerim hoodeconomics.org/crowdsourcing-week-­ ­ Vattenfall, whose site office is located summit-in-vuollerim-sweden/) in the middle of the village. In Crowdsourcing Trends: Global Ideas, Local Sweden, 20-25 per cent of all hydro- Action Epi Ludvik Nekaj, Crowdsourcing Week Vuollerim Economic Association (http://www. vuollerim.se/vaxthuset). The first locally-owned electricity is generated in Jokkmokk Reversing the Brain Drain – And the Future company, founded in 1999. Municipality, and is monitored from of Work. Hjörtur Smárason, Innovation Embassy the operations centre in Vuollerim. VIVA was founded in 2006 and now has more Will we see a new role for the Crypto Currency – [PART 1] Intro to the theme, than 150 joint owners. VIVA owns and operates tool for leveraging local businesses and local Hotel Vuollerim Lodge. The hotel is open year company’s view on local, sustainable capital Epi Ludvik Nekaj, Crowdsourcing Week round and has 16 rooms named after the district’s social development when it comes to villages, all of which have been “adopted” and fairly distributing the surplus of Cutting Edge Innovation. Practical Examples decorated by village residents. The hotel serves resources from hydropower to rural on Crowdsourcing in Vuollerim. Creative Business homemade traditional Swedish cuisine, prepared development? There should be room Development, presentations and visits. fresh, and exudes a warm and welcoming Local Speakers atmosphere. for better local economic develop- ment on the part of state-owned Cutting Edge Innovation. Practical Examples Vuollerims friskola independent school hydropower company Vattenfall for on Crowdsourcing in Vuollerim. Creative Business (http://vuollerimsfriskola.se/foretaget) was Vuollerim’s social model. Development, Presentations and Visits. Local established when the town’s local school was Speakers threatened with closure. The school has been open For those of us who left Vuollerim since 2009 and currently has 100 co-owners. after three days of lively debate, it is Disruptive Energy Technologies & Models clear that we have come a long way Carl Malbrain, Chairman of the Board, Blijdorp Lapland Vuollerim Welcomes You AB is the from the fragile nature of northern town’s tourism company and is owned by 50 Digital Session: Accelerating Impact ­co-owners. In 2014, Vuollerim was named one of Swedish rural development projects ­investing in the Local Economy the world’s top three sustainable tourism desti­ of the past. Can Vuollerim’s young Kevin Jones / Christine Egger, Social Capital nations (Europe). during the conference, it’s easy to Luleå University of Technology we have Innovation Embassy, drew parallels growth potential survive and lay the Markets / Neighbourhood Economy understand how difficult being an secured a solid regional partner with with the development that took place foundation for a new social model? The Village Team AB is a local company based Digital Session: Turning the Tides, Democ- in Vuollerim that operates as a limited company innovator and social developer can be; whom to develop methods for smart in Iceland after the financial crisis. Only time will tell, but it is abundantly racy in a Sustainable Future with an open and broad ownership model. Its to break with traditions and concep- regional development. As the region’s And this dialogue even extended to clear that the Internet of Things can Ingrid Stange, Partnership for Change shareholders are fully aware that no dividends tions. A Swedish author from the leading technology university, it has models for new currency systems open a pathway to new forms of will be paid to individual shareholders and that 1940s, Folke Fridell, wrote a book long worked with the concept of smart where demand-regulated, sustainable dialogue, cooperation and profes- Keys for designing a common good any surplus will be reinvested in the district’s ­foundation in business and collaborative continued development, in accordance with the entitled Av egen kraft [In Your Own regions and crowdsourcing as new trade is developed for local markets. sional development. economy and processes. Experiences, company’s business concept. The principal idea is Strength], and was a pioneer of his time elements within social development,” Martijn Aarets, from Crowd That said, without social relations understandings and success factors to utilize local expertise and resources and to act in Sweden, marrying individual say Birgitta Bergvall-Kåreborn and Expedition in the Netherlands, says and inter-personal interaction, no from Vuollerim. as a catalyst for the implementation of initiatives responsibility with both leadership and Anna Ståhlbröst from Luleå University that what has shaped Crowdsourcing new social models will be created. Local Speakers and opportunities that contribute to the district’s and municipality’s positive development, with cooperation. A cooperative social of Technology (LTU). The Internet Week could be described as a very Those of us who attended Crowd- Crypto Currency in Practice [PART 2] teamwork as the business model. model was developed. plays an important role in building new strong desire for professional sourcing Week in Vuollerim will likely Epi Ludvik Nekaj, Crowdsourcing Week That era was also characterized by a networks that extend beyond the development and networking. also take away the conversations and Nytänk is the local youths’ own development suspicious attitude towards advocates regional level. “It’s easy to find a breeding the social interaction; the stories told Mayors Working Together for a Sustainable project aimed at stimulating and promoting the Future younger generation’s opportunities to influence of change. Perhaps, with time, the The discussions held here in ground for development in an around the camp fire in the storytell- Kaj Embren, The Nordic Mayoral Initiative to COP social development. www.nytank.se winds of change turn suspicion into Vuollerim reached as far as to Califor- environment like this,” he says, and ers’ hut, the dinners where each 21 in Paris curiosity and, with the help of interna- nia, from where the world’s leading adds: “Here you find everything from course was eaten in a different tional attention, begin to inspire new organization for social capital, SOCAP, enthusiastic young people and resident’s home and the conversa- The Relationship Economy, Continuity and cooperation locally and regionally. took part in the programme. “SOCAP well-educated technicians and tions held with the community’s Change Bert-Ola Bergstrand, Lund Open Innovation Center In the lead up to Crowdsourcing looks like it’s on its way to having a engineers to life experience from the newest residents, refugees from Week, a number of meetings were held Nordic platform,” says promoter Sami culture. And, not least of all, Africa. Opportunities and Challenges of Crowd- with key figures from the Municipality, Bert-Ola Bergstrand, who came to leadership, which must also exist if And, to quote Epi Ludvik Nekaj’s sourcing for Smart Regions County Council, County Administrative Crowdsourcing Week from Social you’re going to create a social model concluding remarks from Crowd- Birgitta Bergvall-Kåreborn & Anna Ståhlbröst, Luleå University of Technology, LTU Board, funds and other organizations Capital Forum in Gothenburg, Sweden. that supports a vision of survival and sourcing Week in Swedish Lapland: to share experience and encourage the You could really feel in the crisp development.” “We’ll see you in Vuollerim again next Interactive Workshop: Open Innovation 2.0 continued mutual development of northern air that sound arguments As you walk through the village year.” with Collaborative and Interactive Platforms. What crowdsourcing. gained an easy foothold. Delegate you can see how the local supermar- will it look like? “For example, through contact with Hjörtur Smárason, from Iceland ket is upgrading its energy system,

50 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 51 THIS ARTICLE WAS PAID FOR BY SSG THIS ARTICLE WAS PAID FOR BY SSG

ADDED FOCUS ON PLANT’S LIFECYCLE

The award-winning SSG Product Database service is being developed attention to maintenance initia- tives which result in greater into a strategic information support system that covers a plant’s entire profitability for system owners. lifecycle from product development, purchasing and design to opera- The jury motivated its decision by tion, maintenance and wind-up. The expected result: improved stating that SSG Product Database has been developed with an efficiency and increased sustainability. innovative approach and has big potential both in Sweden and ll production machin- thereby reducing the gigantic internationally. ery goes through surplus stocks and reducing “SSG is a jointly owned com- several phases in its capital tied-up. Furthermore, pany in which Swedish industry lifecycle. There is a reducing stoppage time by just a works collectively on technology, strong connection few hours can quickly turn into purchasing, security and training Abetween the costs that you incur savings in the region of SEK in order to devise more secure, and the gains that you make. 500,000 to 1 million. efficient and sustainable process- From a sustainability perspective “The service’s uniqueness lies es. This work method is unique in it is therefore vital that all the in its full transparency; everybody international industry. The stages of a machine’s lifecycle are can see what everybody else has services devised are employed by handled in an integrated manner. got. A virtual stock room contain- a number of professional indus- High productivity requires ing everybody’s spare parts, trial groups including design, reliable machinery that is simple where you can borrow spare parts purchasing, safety, health and the to repair when it breaks down, is from each other and reduce environment,” explains Matti designed to support efficiency of stoppage time. You will not find Tuikkanen, CEO of Swedish Asset use and which manufactures this kind of openness between Management Society (SAMS) and products at a defined quality level. industries and companies any- organiser of the award. The machinery should also be where else in the world. It forges flexible enough to adapt to the unique opportunities for custom- NEW LIFECYCLE PROJECT customers’ future needs and ising whole new solutions that The product database is entering demand. boost sustainability and efficiency. the next phase of its develop- SSG Product Database has a big Solutions that are difficult to copy ment. The project, called LCDM and important role to play for as they are built on a unique (Life Cycle Data Management), is Swedish industry. collaboration in Swedish industry. exploring the possibilities for SSG Product Database is entering supplementing existing database SIGNIFICANT SAVINGS the next phase of its develop- information to create greater SSG Product Database is a reposi- ment,” says Jonas Berggren, CEO efficiency at the commissioning tory for over 800,000 registered of SSG Standard Solutions Group. phase. Our objective is also to items linked to more than 40 make the information flow from affiliated industries. It is a strate- BIG PRODUCTIVITY AWARD 2014 design and operation to mainte- gic resource that helps companies It is also one of the reasons why nance more efficient. gain more control over spare SSG Product Database won the Big The data that needs to be parts and stock items. Productivity Award (Stora Produk- supplemented first and foremost The savings are huge. Indus- tivitetspriset) in 2014. The Award, is the design and maintenance trial companies can make signifi- which has been presented every requirements. cant savings simply by borrowing two years since 1990, is a Nordic “We coordinate the informa- spare parts from each other, supplier award designed to call tion from the design phase with

52 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES | 53 COLUMN: LARS LING THIS ARTICLE WAS PAID FOR BY SSG

“ YOU WILL NOT FIND THIS KIND OF ­OPENNESS ­BETWEEN ­INDUSTRIES AND COMPANIES ­ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD. Swedish cleantech to boost IT FORGES UNIQUE­ OPPOR- TUNITIES FOR CUSTOMISING the world economy! WHOLE NEW SOLUTIONS THAT BOOST SUSTAINABILITY­ AND ­EFFICIENCY. ” ver 6000 Swedish cleantech become more successful and also with companies are work- International projects and companies. ing hard every day to make a The demand from China, India, Russia, the maintenance phase. With com­ difference and addressing the Indonesia, Australia and Brazil are huge, and prehensive plant data, the automated climate and sustainable chal- are some of the fastest changing and polluting processes for this information transfer O lenges that we are facing. countries including the U.S where the need for will enhance the efficiency of opera- The strengths come from Sweden’s heritage environmentally solutions are most needed tion and maintenance processes, and changing climate, with harsh winters, and growing. generate purchasing gains and reduce Sweden has long been a model for energy- The trend and fastest growing continent is capital tied-up,” says Jonas Berggren. saving technologies and environmentally Africa with many successful projects in Water, “Our vision is that you will be able advanced intellectual knowledge that now is renewable energy, environmental awareness to design a plant using items and becoming vital. You will find many success and bioenergy initiatives, with huge potential. machinery whose functions, per­ stories and companies in this magazine. With over a 3100 billion market 2020, the formance and KPIs you already know. We can all see that the need for sustainable biggest business opportunity in the world is You are basing your design on actual solutions is growing, the way we live our daily there for Swedish and the worlds cleantech facts,” says Jonas Berggren. life and consuming is just not going to work. companies! We are expected to be over 9 billion people by Go make a difference! THE POTENTIAL FOR SWEDISH and global 2050. That’s equal to almost 400,000 industry is significant. thousand new citizens every day, that will “There are studies that show that need somewhere to live, food and water. loss of information from the building Houses and buildings consume energy, to to the commission stage alone is produce food you need even more energy and around 2.8 percent of the project cost. water. With Swedish industry investing SEK This is the world’s biggest business 55 billion a year and the Swedish forest opportunity. industry investing SEK 10 billion a Swedish cleantech companies have long year, the potential savings are enor- experience in building and developing smart mous,” says Jonas Berggren and rounds sustainable cities and societies. Symbio City is off: a concept that Business Sweden Agency “One of Sweden’s main competitive together with companies, regions and advantages is our culture. Our ability partners that is focusing on building sustain- Lars Ling to cooperate and build complex able cities and regions. Swedish cleantech CEO of CleanTech Regi- systems. If we go all the way with our companies are working together in projects to on Solutions AB ambitions, there are huge savings to be made for industry and possibilities for Lönnå Kristoffer Foto: Berggren. Jonas building an information infrastructure that paves the way for a more efficient industry.”

54 | GREEN SOLUTIONS FROM SWEDEN AND THE NORDIC COUNTRIES GREENGREEN SOLUTIONSSOLUTIONS FROMFROM SWEDENSWEDEN ANDAND THETHE NORDICNORDIC COUNTRIESCOUNTRIES | | 5555 SWEETPOP.SE

SUSTAINABLE THINKING IS WORKING TOGETHER

Almost everybody agrees that the key to a brighter future for the environment is cooperation. If we can set new standards for how we solve problems together we can really make a change. That is exactly what we have been doing for decades in the Swedish process industry. Working together to solve common problems. It is proven to be an effective strategy and we call it the ssg way. But you could also call it sustainable thinking.