By Daniel Thøgersen Balle, AAU Communication and Public Affairs
Photo: Private

Companies can play a crucial role in the transition towards a more sustainable and circular economy. Nordic Wood Industries (NOWI) – like many others in the construction sector – faces the challenge of utilizing resources more efficiently and reducing waste.

This challenge was addressed by AAU graduates Emily Greve Somerset and Marie Kristine Mikkelsen in their thesis in Environmental Management & Sustainability Science. Their motivation stemmed partly from the lack of studies on industrial symbiosis within corporate groups, and partly from NOWI’s interest in working more sustainably and systematically.

In 2024, NOWI generated approximately 4,500 tons of wood waste/residual wood, originating from cutting processes, outdoor storage solutions, and design choices. 72% of this wood waste/residual wood was incinerated for energy recovery. Emily and Marie therefore saw great potential to change the current practice and make more efficient use of the wood – for example through reuse and recycling rather than incineration.

To increase the value retention of their residual wood, Emily and Marie worked with the concept of industrial symbiosis. Industrial symbiosis is a collaborative approach in which companies share both physical and knowledge-based resources.

Building on waste data, interviews, observations, and a workshop, they developed a new shared vision together with the company. NOWI has established a new network group focusing on innovation and circular initiatives. In addition, some of the companies within the group are already developing solutions where residual wood is incorporated into existing products. Moreover, the collaboration with Emily and Marie has created a new mindset within NOWI: from waste to resource.