Learnings from ReTuna implemented in new Boden initiative 

Understanding the development of the circular economy is an ongoing dynamic process. Consequently, many actors in the field gather experiences and learnings on the go, much of which can be utilised moving forward in other projects. The proposal for the concept in Boden, lead by Cirkulenterna, builds upon key learnings from ReTuna, and is about to establish a distribution centre that includes a drop-off area. It's a distribution centre for handling material, sorting and working on the materials to prepare them for delivery to external partners in the municipality. 

The founders of Cirkulenterna are Anna Bergström and Ingela Ljung. Together they have created this space for circular solutions. 

– We try to increase the knowledge about sustainability, and we are working together in a small sustainable factory, says Anna Bergström, sustainability consultant at Cirkulenterna. 

Before Anna Bergström started Cirkulenterna, she was involved in the innovative reuse shopping centre Retuna in Eskilstuna. 

– Retuna works like a recycling centre. There is a drop-off hub, where people can donate things they don't want to keep anymore. All the items received are sorted and distributed to the shops in the same building. 

There is also a depot, where the tenants can select what items they want to use and what to do with them. 

– They refurbish each product and then put it up for sale again in their shop. This is an easy way to create a cycle, a loop for things that people drop off and which are then sent out for sale again at ReTuna. 

Anna Bergström is also involved in a new circular undertaking called "Cirkulationsplats Boden - ett varv till", situated in Boden. 

– I have been tasked with conducting a feasibility study. I work as a consultant to develop a proposal for a distributive reuse system for Boden municipality. The proposal is about increasing the reuse of products and items within the city. 

This project involves the whole municipality of Boden. The concept is about helping the city and local businesses become more sustainable. 

– The proposal for the concept is to establish a distribution centre that includes a drop-off area. It's a distribution centre for handling material, and for sorting and working on the materials to prepare them for delivery to external partners in the municipality. 

Anna Bergström believes that the ultimate business model is circular. 

– I don't see any other business model being better than this – saving the planet and at the same time making money. Anything is possible. 

For Anna, value is defined by keeping and reusing a product. 

- I think people will become more aware of the value of their products and be careful about how they use them and how they shop, and what they buy. Again, it's about the mindset and how we could learn to live more sustainably.