Professor Andersen participated in the SOURCES Centre of Excellence two-day conference as a board member and was deeply impressed by what she saw. “The group of researchers at SOURCES, led by Professor Riina Aav from Tallinn University of Technology, is far more advanced and active than I expected. The atmosphere was inspiring, and participants were truly engaged – which is not always the case at scientific conferences,” she noted.

Science and Industry Must Find Each Other

A recurring topic at the conference was how to increase collaboration between science and industry in promoting the circular economy. Andersen believes there is much potential, but it often goes untapped. “Researchers often turn to well-known foreign institutions, especially partners in the US, overlooking opportunities in their home countries. Engaging local industry requires proactivity – ideas shouldn’t just stay in the lab,” she emphasized.

According to her, researchers should actively seek contact with companies, offer concrete solutions, and speak the “language of industry.” “You have to go out there and show that we have the knowledge and innovation capacity that industry needs – not just wait for them to come knocking.”

She also pointed out researchers’ own limited readiness for collaboration: “Many scientists have never even been inside a factory. Industry feels distant and complicated to them. But real scientific potential often lies exactly where real production problems exist.”

Keys to Circular Economy: Rare Materials, Algae, and Fungal Blocks

Professor Andersen sees great potential in innovative, often overlooked areas. She highlighted projects focused on the circular use of rare materials, the application of algae in the food industry, and mycelium-based construction materials. “These may seem like side projects, but they could hold future trends. We need to focus on the entire value chain – not just what happens to a product after use, but how to design it to be sustainable from the start,” she said.

She finds inspiration in projects that valorize avocado waste or use red algae. “These show that the circular economy isn’t just about sorting waste – it can also be delicious and creative!”

Policy Measures Require Thoughtfulness and Courage

To advance the circular economy, the political framework must also evolve. Andersen praised the European Union’s new circular economy action plan, which emphasizes product durability and reusability. “This is a major step forward compared to previous policies that focused mostly on recycling,” she noted.

She considers the extended producer responsibility mechanism particularly effective, as it motivates companies to design better and more sustainable products. However, she also stressed the need for critical evaluation of new materials like bioplastics. “There simply isn’t enough biomass to replace all plastics. Not every plastic alternative is truly sustainable. We need smart and flexible policies.”

Cultural Change Creates Sustainability

Andersen believes that people’s attitudes have shifted in recent years. “Data shows that awareness and willingness to act have increased. A successful example is Estonia’s deposit system – bottles are no longer waste but a resource,” she said.

She pointed out that in developing countries, waste valorization is often seen negatively due to its association with low social status. “We need to create systems that offer inclusion and dignity – not just efficiency.”

Speaking about global trends, Andersen highlighted the long-term development of circular economy policies in China and the growing innovation capacity in India. “China has been implementing policies for over 25 years. Now they are moving from resource management toward sustainability. Much of future growth will happen in Asia,” she assessed.

In conclusion, Andersen acknowledged that setbacks will occur, but the direction is right. “Circular economy thinking is finally becoming mainstream. It’s essential not only for the environment but also for the economy and societal resilience. That’s what makes it so powerful – and so necessary.”

Launched in 2024, the SOURCES Center of Excellence, led by Professor Riina Aav, is dedicated to circular solutions for raw materials. Its researchers focus on solving technological challenges related to the (re)use of mineral and carbon-based resources. The center analyzes the availability of strategic materials, develops more environmentally friendly chemical technologies, and explores circular business models. Funded for seven years, SOURCES Center of Excellence also addresses plastic, textile, and water treatment issues and evaluates the sustainability of technologies in terms of environmental impact and supply chain security.