Method: A design process to map and mobilize

Why a design process?

A design process is about working from the outside in. Opening up and listening to the perspectives of different actors, in order to understand the complexity of the challenges to be tackled. An important starting point is to act on the insights gained during the process and include a wide range of actors in creating the solutions. The challenges of the forest value chain require a starting point that is both listening and mobilizing. Therefore, a design process provides the opportunity for interventions and solutions that have a great impact. Below we describe the central process steps.

1. Outlook on the circular research situation

To get a helicopter perspective on the current state and future of a resource-efficient and circular economy, our process started by reading research reports. We have, among other things, delved into reports on planetary boundaries, the global resource situation, circular gaps in Sweden and the EU's green deal and circular plan forward. The purpose of this was to map key challenges, strategies, barriers and opportunities for a resource-efficient and circular economy.

2. Analysis of our circular project portfolio and prioritization

We mapped Vinnova's portfolio of circular project. It made it clear that Vinnova has funded around 600 project with a resource-efficient and circular focus since 2020. We analyzed insights from the reports together with data about our portfolio.

The purpose of this analysis was to identify gaps, strengths and opportunities in Vinnova's circular project portfolio. It helped us prioritize and target bio-based value chains, where we saw potential potential have the greatest impact.

3. In-depth interviews with actors within bio-based value chains

To understand how bio-based value chains can become more sustainable and circular, we have interviewed actors operating in the system. We conducted 25 in-depth interviews, with representatives from different parts of the forest value chain.

Many different issues and perspectives were touched upon in these interviews.

4. System mapping, levers and action proposals

Insights from our interviews were compiled into a system map. This map helped us understand the complexity, narrow down the different perspectives and distinguish the most important levers for system change. Using this as a starting point, Vinnova developed action proposals, with the forest value chain in focus.

5. Mobilization of actors and implementation of interventions

During the fall of 2024, the Vinnova team has worked to mobilize and involve actors from different parts of the forest value chain and value network.
The initiatives that have been developed focus on the entire forest value chain. It consists of three parts with a focus on strategic foresight, policy instruments and business models.

For the efforts to contribute to real change on a large scale, many actors in different parts of the system need to take ownership and be part of the journey. Creating the right conditions requires collaboration, research and innovation.

The transition journey offers an opportunity to develop a sustainable society and competitive business within planetary boundaries, with increased biodiversity and a balanced climate.

Here you can read more about Vinnova's transition journey, for a future-proof sustainable forest and use of forest raw materials

Interested in the transition journey?

Please contact us if you have any questions or want to know more about how we work towards a sustainable transition.

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