Lessons from Helsinki: HSY’s Ämmässuo Eco-Industrial Centre

Lessons from HSY’s Ekomo Business Collaboration at the Ämmässuo Eco-Industrial Centre – Strengthening Cooperation through Practical Action

HSY’s Ämmässuo Eco-Industrial Centre and its Ekomo partnerships achieved excellent results in a recent self-assessment focusing on multiple helix collaboration models. The findings positively affirmed that we have made more progress in the development of multi-actor collaboration than previously anticipated. It is encouraging to see that the identified practices can be more effectively integrated into our day-to-day operations. This process led us to identify seven key practices and models that could serve as valuable examples for other organizations and stakeholders seeking to develop and strengthen their own collaboration models in circular economy hubs.

Here are our key recommendations:

1. Commitment and Written Agreements:
As the landowner, HSY has formal written agreements with each Ekomo partner concerning cooperation and land use. These agreements outline shared operating principles, collaboration commitments, compliance with environmental permits, safety protocols, dispute resolution mechanisms, and operating hours. We believe that written agreements strengthen trust and promote long-term commitment, ensuring a safe working environment for all actors within the eco-industrial center.

2. Shared Environmental Permit and Reporting:
HSY coordinates the shared environmental permit for the area and handles environmental reporting for all operators working under HSY’s environmental permit. While this requires significant input from HSY, it saves partners considerable time and administrative effort. The service covers regulatory contacts, environmental monitoring, necessary reports, and pre-operation notifications. We view this coordination as a service that simplifies compliance and strengthens the entire ecosystem.

3. Shared Infrastructure:
The shared infrastructure services offer significant cost savings to our partners and streamline operations in the area. The most commonly used services include HSY’s weigh station, road maintenance, machinery services, lighting, prepared yard areas, and water supply. One of the most significant sustainability solutions is the electricity produced on-site, which covers a large portion of the eco-industrial center’s energy needs. This supports energy self-sufficiency and significantly reduces operational emissions.

4. Efficient and Open Communication as the Foundation of Collaboration:
Effective communication is a key factor in both workplace dynamics and broader collaboration networks. At the eco-industrial center, communication has been developed to be multi-layered and systematic:

• One-on-one and joint meetings: Each Ekomo partner has two one-on-one meetings with HSY each year, as well as two joint meetings with other partners.
• Daily Communication: A Microsoft Teams channel has been set up for daily communication between HSY and the Ekomo business partners, enabling real-time communication and proactive collaboration.
• Event Participation: Partners regularly participate in workshops and stakeholder events organized by HSY, promoting transparency and interaction. HSY also actively participates in inter-stakeholder seminars and industry events, disseminating information to area stakeholders.
• Broader Collaborative Networks: Ekomo partnerships extend to educational institutions and professional networks, bringing new perspectives and reinforcing knowledge sharing.

5. Common Orientation Materials:
A shared orientation package has been developed for all Ekomo area users, covering operational models, safety guidelines, and environmental responsibilities. The unified orientation process supports the development of a shared understanding and ensures consistent practices across the area.

6. Business Introductions and Educational Collaboration:
HSY actively promotes the Ekomo area and its businesses to municipalities, companies, and educational institutions. These introductions not only increase visibility for our partners but also open new opportunities for collaboration and business development.

7. Communication and Social Media:
To increase the visibility of the Eco-Industrial Center and the Ekomo business collaboration, we invest in utilizing LinkedIn and other social media platforms. Our goal is to raise awareness of the area and its operators, strengthen the Ekomo brand, and attract new business partners.

We believe that through strong coordination, open communication, and shared services, ecosystems can be created where collaboration flourishes and all parties benefit. We hope that our experiences at the Ämmässuo Eco-Industrial Centre can inspire others towards a more sustainable and collaborative future.