Future opportunities in Northern Europe in focus at NSPA Forum

The Processum Biorefinery Cluster participated in the forum, contributing valuable insights into bio-based development in northern Sweden. Our CEO, Karin Johnson, took part in the programme, led by Carina Christiansen from the North Sweden European Office. The discussions were based on the latest OECD report, which highlights the unique challenges and great potential for long-term growth in these regions.

The focus was on the impact of European Union policy on development in the European Arctic, and on ways to strengthen cooperation, infrastructure, and skills provision.

“There are excellent conditions for a strong forest-based bioeconomy in northern Sweden, thanks to low energy costs, good access to raw materials through side streams, opportunities for new businesses and exciting synergies between bio-based processes. However, important challenges remain, such as developing business models for side streams, ensuring an adequate supply of skills, and providing the infrastructure required to facilitate new businesses and migration. 'Transport, housing, food and cultural offerings are all pieces of the puzzle that must fall into place for us to realise the region's full potential,” says Jonas Andersson, chair of the NSPA network and member of the Jämtland Härjedalen Regional Council.

As part of the forum, we welcomed visitors to RISE's pilot hall in Örnsköldsvik, where we showed them how we are developing sustainable processes and technologies for the future. 

It was valuable for us to network and exchange ideas with stakeholders from across the NSPA area. We look forward to applying the new insights we gained to help drive development forward, both locally and at the EU level.