UPM and Aalto University start co-operation on sustainable design

Sustainable development is an important part of Aalto University's strategy and research. This project examines how design and innovation can contribute to the overall production of sustainable solutions. UPM also has ambitious responsibility targets. As a manufacturer of materials, the company enables its customers and end users to make more sustainable choices. The research project is led by Tua Björklund, Professor of Practice in Aalto University Design Factory.

‘It's great that UPM enables sustainable design research. At Design Factory, we look at how designers can incorporate sustainability into their work and organisations. At the same time, they gain new perspectives on trends and the future of design and product development’, says Tua Björklund, Professor of Practise.

New information on sustainability and design

The multidisciplinary research project responds both to the academic need for sustainable and responsible design and provides up-to-date information to various organizations to support development work. The results of the project will be published by autumn 2022.

Responsibility and circular economy play a key role in UPM’s Biofore strategy.

‘In our own responsibility work, we rely largely on science. We want to constantly learn more and innovate sustainable products and solutions, as well as gain insights into what choices and practices contribute to sustainable development in product and service design’, says Sami Lundgren, UPM's Director of Responsibility.

Björklund also emphasises the topicality of the study:
'The role of sustainable design and design is growing strongly. There are many new methods, but their introduction needs to be supported by researched information on what works and under what conditions. Practices and culture need to be developed in parallel to achieve the best results.'

More information:

Tua Björklund, Professor of Practise, Aalto University, Design Factory
tua.bjorklund@aalto.fi
tel. +358 50 511 3182