This year, the event offered inspiring lectures and spirited conversations about three topics at the forefront of the transformation we are all in.
Rundgång, a shopping venue in Karlstad for reused items, has challenged views on second-hand goods and circular thinking. Emma Sundh, circular entrepreneur and project manager, described the importance of making reuse an attractive concept.
- It’s a matter of skill, says Emma Sundh. We breathe new life into old things by making them look good again, and that keeps Rundgång interesting. We are not afraid to try new things, so we are constantly evolving.
Opening a circular shop in the middle of a major shopping centre in downtown Karlstad had its share of obstacles, not least how long it took before everything was in place.
- A window opened up in which we had the chance to try this, says Henric Barkman, environmental strategist at Karlstad municipality. The timing was right when we started out. But the most crucial part of the entire Rundgång project was paving the way for this sort of approach. With these initiatives, it’s always difficult to be able to scale up and get it to stand on its own two feet. Rundgång is now a permanent fixture, and at Karlstad municipality, we couldn’t be prouder.
- It is great to see a venture like Rundgång successfully implemented, says Malin Pettersson, business area manager at Karlstad Energi. Our municipal staff and politicians feel a great sense of pride. Now we feel more confident about experimenting a little going forward.
Karlstad was not the first city to open a shop with a concept like this, but Rundgång just might be the best one in Sweden.
- We were bold enough to talk to a variety of partners in order to gather everything in one place, says Emma Sundh. That has helped us a lot. The more input, the better the result. As project manager, all the people I have come across have been excited to be included.
What is the plan beyond 2030?
- We have learned a lot from working together and across traditional boundaries, says Henric Barkman. We need to keep striving for innovation, in a short-term and long-term perspective.
- Rundgång has given us a glimpse into the future, says Emma Sundh.
Marie Carlsson, VP Electromobility Business Solutions at Volvo Buses, talked about topics including the necessary ecosystems for the implementation of electric buses.
- The possibility of driving without noise or emissions greatly affects residents. The difference is enormous.
- Silent, emission-free transportation will change the way our cities feel and work, said Marie Carlsson, mentioning Volvo’s four vision zeros: No emissions, no noise, no accidents, and no drivers leaving their jobs due to poor working conditions.
Natascha Radclyffe-Thomas, Professor of Marketing & Sustainable Business, British School of Fashion, gave a digital talk on challenges related to sustainability in the textile and fashion industry.
- Every clothing item is used fewer and fewer times, and the chains within the industry tend to be very far apart. The cotton is grown in one place, the items are made in another, and then sold in a third. By the time the consumer is finished with their item, it’s difficult to put it to any good use. Therein lies a major challenge for the industry.
Jenny Karlsson, project manager, Sustainability Day - are you pleased with this year’s event?
- Yes, Sustainability Day 2024 showed us how reuse, electrification and fashion industry innovation can contribute to a more sustainable world. The courage to experiment and the will to work together create the potential to make a difference, both locally and globally. The themes this year were right on the money - they were inspiring and seemed relevant to the students.
