Dalarna Science Park was invited to the Delegation for the Circular Economy’s 2026 annual conference to present the Circular Industry Accelerator—an initiative that transforms industrial waste streams into new resources and business opportunities.
From the stage at Nalen in Stockholm, project manager Carolina Friberg shared inspiring examples of how companies can work with the circular economy and discussed the project’s approach and results. The Circular Industry Accelerator pairs established industries with innovative small businesses to develop new uses for materials that would otherwise risk becoming waste.
“We’re not content to just talk about theoretical possibilities. Companies are testing the materials and ideas in real-world environments. It starts on a small scale, but the goal is for it to lead to something bigger,” says Carolina.
Some inspiring examples she highlights include wood shavings that have been processed into pure lignin for use in skin care products, lime residues that have been turned into soil amendments, and grinding sludge from the steel industry that has been converted into chemicals for water treatment.
The overall results of the collaborations that have emerged through the Circular Industry Accelerator include stronger innovation capacity, more efficient use of resources, and new circular business opportunities. At the same time, the project demonstrates that the transition does not always have to begin with large-scale solutions.
– “We’re grateful for the opportunity to present our project here at the Delegation for the Circular Economy’sannual conference. It confirms that our approach is well-positioned and aligned with the delegation’s circular economy principles. The transition to a circular economy begins with the courage to experiment—and with the right stakeholders gathered around the same table,” says Carolina.
You can find Carolina Friberg's performance at the 07:51 mark in the film.
