Resource-wise future from Satakunta
Climate change, depletion of natural resources, and securing supply chains are among the key challenges of our time. In Satakunta the Resource Wisdom Research Area answers to these challenges together with more than 30 experts in competence, research, and practical development.
The Resource Wisdom Research Area operates as a multidisciplinary development platform at Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK). Its aim is to help local companies, organizations, and residents take resource-wise steps – to act in ways that save natural resources, reduce emissions, and build a more sustainable future from both environmental and economic perspectives. Our vision is to make Satakunta the most resource-wise region in Finland.
At the core of the work are four main themes:
- Sustainable and responsible construction
- Renewable energy solutions and energy efficiency
- Circular economy solutions
- Responsible and sustainable food chain
In addition, supply security and related preparedness form an essential part of the research and development work.
– For us, resource wisdom means above all long-term and practical development together with local actors. We bring knowledge and expertise where it is most needed: to companies, municipalities, education, and decision-making, says Research manager Mikko Lehtonen.
Collaboration and impactful development
The Resource Wisdom Research Area carries out both national and international projects every year, piloting new technologies, developing training content, and producing research knowledge for different sectors. Business cooperation plays a key role, and already dozens of companies from Satakunta and elsewhere in Finland have been involved.
For example, in the construction sector, experts have contributed to the development of low-carbon construction methods and calculation tools, and supported companies in the transition towards the new building legislation. In the energy field, solar power solutions have been tested, energy efficiency simulated, and the potential of the hydrogen economy explored. In the food chain, sustainability is being advanced by reducing food waste and improving resource efficiency.
– The goal is to ensure that the results can be directly utilized by companies and that they support the vitality, expertise, and competitiveness of the region, Lehtonen adds.
Kirkkokallio and Satakunta BioValley as examples of resource wisdom
The Resource Wisdom Research Area works in close cooperation with regional eco-networks. For instance, the Kirkkokallio Eco-Industrial Park in Kankaanpää is a nationally significant example of circular economy in practice, where by-products from different actors are efficiently utilized in new production and energy solutions.
Meanwhile, Satakunta BioValley brings together food sector actors and supports the development of sustainable operating models as well as the strengthening of supply security.
– We want to help make Satakunta and Finland a region that leads the way in sustainable development. Resource wisdom creates a competitive advantage for both national and international business, and we are here to help harness it, Lehtonen summarizes.