KIPI – a change-maker in the circular economy

Let’s turn the circular economy into concrete action together.

Concrete solutions toward a circular economy

Circular Pirkanmaa (KIPI) was established in 2023 as part of Ekokumppanit, and it is one of Finland’s first regional development centers dedicated to the circular economy. We build practical solutions and bring together a fragmented circular‑economy landscape. A clear operating model, strategic focus areas, and strong partnerships form the foundation for real change and a sustainable future.

In less than two years, we were recognized as a success story by the European Commission — proof that by working together, we can achieve significant results.

Partner experiences with KIPI

“Thank you for being so concrete and for understanding what municipal‑sector development is like. You’ve been a tremendous help.”

– Jonna Sillman‑Sola
Director of Administration, City of Kangasala

“We have received valuable support from KIPI in strengthening dialogue between stakeholders, building our circular‑economy brand, and getting sparring on our journey toward circularity.”

– Maarit Särkilahti
Circular Economy Specialist, Pirkanmaan Jätehuolto

“KIPI is an exceptional actor that actively develops circular‑economy solutions through close collaboration, bold experimentation, and concrete actions.”

Impact doesn’t happen by accident

We believe real change comes from action — not just strategies. At the heart of development is impact, which requires focused work and collaboration. KIPI acts as an orchestrator: we combine knowledge, piloting, and mindset change to move the circular economy from words to practice. Pirkanmaa’s strong cooperation network is a resource we make full use of.

How we can help

KIPI’s key networks, both nationally and internationally

National

Ministries
Motiva/Circular Economy Finland
Business Finland
Sitra
Research Institutes
Sector‑specific organizations

International

EU (Circular Economy Action plan and related funding)
Circular Cities and Regions (CCRI)
ICLEI
Hubs (Hubs4circ)
Major development projects

Together toward systemic change

Our goal is clear and ambitious: a systemic shift toward a circular economy — together with municipalities and regional actors. We want to accelerate the transition from a linear economy to a circular one, where resource efficiency guides all construction and material flows. Circularity is not just an environmental act; it is economically sound and socially essential.

Today, we still operate largely in a linear economy: in 2018, Finland’s circular‑material use rate was only about 7%, compared to the EU average of 11% (Strategic Programme for Circular Economy, Finnish Government). The construction sector alone accounts for roughly 40% of global emissions, largely due to the production of virgin materials.

But change does not happen on its own. A systemic transition requires bold decisions, new thinking, cultural transformation, and broad collaboration. KIPI is ready to take action. We provide concrete tools, expertise, and support to ensure the transition happens — together.

Let’s talk more

Why KIPI is an effective partner for circular‑economy development

We understand the diversity of municipalities and companies — and their different needs. We know how to listen and value the knowledge our clients bring, which forms the foundation of successful collaboration. As one client put it: “Thank you for being so concrete and for understanding what municipal‑sector development is like. You’ve been a tremendous help.”
We have strong experience in national and international strategy‑ and legislation‑level processes. We recognize how these influence the operating environment of municipalities and companies (including the Circular Economy Green Deal).
Our approach is widely appreciated — we bring concrete action where others stop at talk. We don’t stay at the strategy level; we move things into practice by combining knowledge, piloting, and mindset change. We work openly, collaboratively, and with impact at the forefront.

How did KIPI begin?

KIPI was born from the need to turn circular‑economy strategies into practical action across municipal boundaries. The idea emerged from the national strategic programme for the circular economy, which highlighted the need to implement circularity as cross‑municipal cooperation. Finland also had a strong need for concrete action: strategies existed at both state and municipal levels, but practical circular‑economy solutions lagged behind.

This led to the idea of a regional circular‑economy development center that provides sparring, expertise, and hands‑on support to turn circular‑economy plans into everyday action. That is the work KIPI continues to do today.

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