We are looking for the leading European companies with circular economy solutions for nature

Biodiversity loss has far-reaching impacts on our economy, health and well-being. This is why we must stop biodiversity loss. Companies play an important role in safeguarding biodiversity and many pioneering firms have already started taking the necessary steps. Investors, financiers and customers are also increasingly interested in solutions that mitigate biodiversity loss.

According to a Sitra report published in 2021, the circular economy plays an essential role in halting biodiversity loss. However, so far, there are only a few tangible examples of how to safeguard biodiversity through circular business.

Therefore, Sitra is launching a search to find Europe’s leading circular economy solutions for nature. The purpose of the list is to provide practical examples of how biodiversity loss can be tackled using companies’ circular solutions, while at the same time generating successful business.

“Halting biodiversity loss is often only seen in terms of protection, restoration or compensation for the harm caused to nature. With this new list of companies, we want to show that business operations and tackling biodiversity loss can be combined,” says Jyrki Katainen, President of Sitra.

How can I get involved?

The call for applications is now closed. The list will be published at the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) in 2024.

What kinds of companies can apply to be included?

We are looking for European companies that:

• offer circular solutions that help prevent biodiversity loss and turn harmful environmental impacts into measures to strengthen biodiversity;
• unlock more value from existing resources and reduce the need to use new resources;
• operate in those sectors that have the biggest impact on nature, in particular food production and agriculture, buildings and construction, fibres and textiles, and the forest sector.

What will be the benefits for companies?

The companies included in the list will:

• be given the opportunity to tell their own story to international audiences at the World Circular Economy Forum in 2024;
• be among the first to be given an opportunity to demonstrate how circular solutions can be used to generate business, solve customers’ problems and, at the same time, mitigate biodiversity loss;
• learn to recognise and communicate how their own circular solutions enhance biodiversity.

How will companies be selected for the final list of applicants?

The companies will be selected for the list by a panel featuring experts from Sitra and a consultant partner. Read more about the selection criteria.

More information on the topic

Propose your company for the list!

Read more about the application process and selection criteria on the project website.

We have compiled a FAQ on the list of circular solutions for nature.

Update 31 October 2023: The call has ended. The list will be published at the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) in 2024.