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Finland brings together partners to scale circular economy solutions worldwide

18/09/2026

Finland has played a leading role in putting the circular economy on the global agenda. Today, Finland is helping turn circular economy ambitions into practical solutions by bringing together governments, businesses and financial institutions to advance partnerships, innovation and investment worldwide.

Circular economy solutions can improve resource efficiency, strengthen competitiveness and create new business opportunities while reducing pressure on natural resources. They enable economic growth that is both sustainable and resilient. The transition to a circular economy is essential for addressing some of today’s most pressing global challenges. Unsustainable use of natural resources, biodiversity loss, pollution and the climate crisis are placing increasing pressure on societies and economies worldwide.

Finland has long been recognized as one of the international pioneers of the circular economy. A key example is the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF), launched by the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra in 2017.

Over the years, WCEF has become the world’s leading circular economy forum, bringing together policymakers, international organizations, businesses, financial institutions and experts to advance practical solutions for sustainable growth. This year the forum was held in Gandhinagar, India, with more than 3000 participants.

Finland promotes the circular economy globally through partnerships that help countries move from strategies and roadmaps to practical implementation. Alongside the World Circular Economy Forum, Finland supports the Circular Economy Resource Centre (CERC), works with African partners to advance circular economy solutions and convenes expert dialogues that facilitate knowledge exchange, business cooperation, investment, and the development of new market opportunities.

Mobilising investment for sustainable development

At this year’s World Circular Economy Forum 2026, Finland announced a new commitment of EUR 120 million to the planned Finland-IFC Blended Finance Program. The fund, expected to become operational in 2027, aims to mobilise private capital for sustainable development investments in emerging markets.

Circular economy will be a cross-cutting theme across the fund’s activities. The initiative is expected to attract approximately USD 600 million in additional financing to projects supported by the fund, including significant private sector investment.

Public-private partnerships are essential for mobilising the level of investment needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. By working together with international financial institutions, governments and businesses, sustainable solutions can be expanded, particularly in markets where access to finance remains limited but opportunities for sustainable growth are significant.

Circular economy as a driver of sustainable growth

Sustainable development, climate action and responsible resource use contribute not only to economic prosperity, but also to social resilience and long-term stability. Circular economy solutions can help create jobs, strengthen resource security, attract investment, and support sustainable growth, while addressing challenges that affect communities worldwide.

As global interest in circular economy approaches continues to grow, the challenge is increasingly one of implementation. Through cooperation, dialogue, knowledge-sharing and innovative financing, Finland is helping build partnerships that turn shared challenges into opportunities for investment, innovation and job creation.