Finland aims to establish itself as a frontrunner in the circular economy by 2035, prioritizing economic competitiveness without relying on the wasteful utilization of natural resources. The circular economy approach focuses on minimizing waste, optimizing resource efficiency, promoting sharing platforms, and extending product lifecycles.

Finnish higher education institutions will play a vital role in achieving Finland’s ambitious objectives of a circular economy and climate neutrality. Through their expertise, education, and research, these institutions have the potential to cultivate a generation of professionals who prioritize sustainable development principles in their endeavors.

As future professionals, graduates from universities possess the ability to influence the values and strategies of both present and future businesses. As consumers, they exhibit heightened awareness and interest in the raw materials and origins of the products they purchase, as well as the ethical and ecological aspects of production.

Responsibility as an integral strategic component

At Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, responsibility and openness are not just values but integral elements of the institution’s strategy. This is manifested through ethical practices and a culture that promotes transparency and accountability. Haaga-Helia is dedicated to integrating responsible business practices into its curricula and research, instilling a sense of responsibility among its students.

Graduates from Haaga-Helia understand the significance of responsible business as a creator of value not only for companies but also for society at large. They are equipped to contribute to a sustainable global economy. This is achieved through courses on circular economy and responsibility, as well as impactful campaigns targeting students and the public.

Haaga-Helia’s objective is to incorporate sustainability perspectives into the education of as many university students as possible (Federation of Universities of Applied Sciences, Arene, 2021).

Furthermore, the university is committed to Helsinki City’s Climate Partners, the Central Chamber of Commerce’s Climate Commitment, and the gradual implementation of WWF’s Green Office initiative across all its locations (Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, n.d.).

Haaga-Helia actively engages in several projects related to the circular economy and the green transition through its research, development, and innovation efforts.

As Finland’s most prestigious university of applied sciences, Haaga-Helia strives to set an example of responsibility and sustainability for other educational institutions. In fact, Haaga-Helia surpassed its emission reduction targets in 2020, with emissions decreasing by over a third.

The next step involves transitioning the campuses to green electricity (Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences, 2021).

Education as a catalyst for change

Competence is arguably the most influential force driving societal change, according to the Federation of Universities of Applied Sciences. By providing expertise and producing new professionals, universities of applied sciences contribute to sustainable and responsible development in society and the world of work.

Annually, approximately 30,000 new professionals graduate from universities of applied sciences, joining the workforce in the business sector (Federation of Universities of Applied Sciences Arene, 2020).

When discussing change, we must not overlook the significant investment of around 220 million euros in research, development, and innovation activities, along with the contribution of 9,500 person-years, which play a pivotal role in shaping the future of society.

Universities of applied sciences have already collaborated with approximately 300,000 small and medium-sized enterprises, and this collaboration continues to grow each year (ibid.).

In collaboration with their partners, universities of applied sciences and their graduates play a central role in combating climate change and the decline of biodiversity. They have the power to influence attitudes and contribute to shaping a more sustainable future throughout Finland.

References

Rectors’ Conference of Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences Arene ry 2020. Kestävä, vastuullinen ja hiilineutraali ammattikorkeakoulu: Ammattikorkeakoulujen kestävän kehityksen ja vastuullisuuden ohjelma. Arene ry. Helsinki.

Rectors’ Conference of Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences Arene ry 2021. Kestävät ja vastuulliset ammattikorkeakoulut. Arene ry. Helsinki.

Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences. 2020. s.a. Vastuullisuus. Helsinki.

Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences. 2021. Haaga-Helia etenee suunnitellusti kohti hiilineutraaliutta. Helsinki