This project idea is promoted by BIC Carelia and ISAI Consulting, both located in Joensuu, Finland. Contact persons: Mr Pirkka AulaMs Päivi Korhonen Material Recovery and Recycling Business Development

Background Energy from waste is not a sustainable solution. Clean technology and environmental business are growing annually 10 %. Clean technology comprises of  renewable energy sources  material recycling  recovery of wasted materials  material-friendly processes  water treatment The SME sector in clean technology is scattered and operates locally; therefore, it needs strengthening and international cooperation to develop further.

Rationale A new paradigm: the change from traditional waste treatment to more positive recycling, recovery, life cycle and material saving technology.

Objectives Objective 1  to examine existing and future business activities around material recovery and recycling in different peripheral areas, and  to create a databank of best practices and new ideas by combining the findings from different areas. Objective 2  to create a new business model based on feasibility study and educational needs.

Expected Results and Development: New Business Ideas Innovative methods and new business ideas in environmental business. Focus on reclaim, life span and reuse of materials instead of mere waste management.

Expected Results and Development: Education Creation of new educational programmes – new qualifications, occupations and competence to fulfil the needs of the new business sector.

Expected Results and Development: Awareness General awareness-raising will create better prerequisites for new kind of environmental enterprises.

Expected Results and Development: Innovation The innovative project idea of replacing waste-thinking with recovery, life cycle and recycling changes a problem into an opportunity.  In business terms: changing crisis management into opportunity management. The results will be gained through creation of new professions, awareness-raising, and attitude. New general attitude towards recycling and material recovery will effect regulations, which will generate new business opportunities.

Tentative Partnership in Finland University: North Karelia University of Applied Sciences Business: BIC Carelia ISAI Consulting Public body: North Karelia Regional Environment Centre ?

Contact Information BIC Carelia: Mr Pirkka Aula, Director tel North Karelia University of Applied Sciences Ms Susanna Varis, Project Manager tel ISAI Consulting Ms Päivi Korhonen, CEO tel