Abrasive and power tool manufacturer Mirka saw circular economy as both an essential factor for competitiveness and an inspiring goal for customers and staff. With Ethica, Mirka has strengthened the integration of circular economy into the organisation, starting from the design of power tools. We asked about experiences from the process from Veli-Pekka Västi, who leads the Power Tools department at Mirka.
As an engineering organisation, we need practical things to implement so that plans would not stay floating at the conceptual level. This was achieved delightfully with Ethica.
Why did you decide to start aligning your operations with circular economy?
The importance of circular economy emerged from various sources: not only through legislation but also from the interest of Mirka’s customers and staff. We realised that considering this aspect is crucial for competitiveness and presents an important opportunity.
How did you get started? What did you do with Ethica?
Firstly, we launched the SHAPE ecosystem, where we advance circular economy in the manufacturing industry. Additionally, we participated in the Circular Design coaching program, where we became familiar with Ethica. With Ethica, we embarked on implementing the circular economy into our organisation through staff training and co-creating practical guidance for the circular design of power tools.
What was the outcome?
We identified practical improvement areas in our current practices and processes, as well as tools to seamlessly integrate the circular economy into product development. With Ethica’s assistance, we concretely realised the possible changes for Mirka and the direction where we can evolve, including how to integrate circular economy throughout the entire organisation. Furthermore, we obtained practical materials to use as part of documentation.
What did you personally learn?
I learned tremendously, especially about the various aspects associated with circular economy. The overall picture has become much clearer to me, encompassing not only product design but also business models that together enable circular practices.
What particularly delighted you?
Tangibility! As an engineering organisation, we need practical things to implementation so that plans would not stay floating at the conceptual level. This was achieved delightfully with Ethica. Additionally, it was great to see how actively Mirka’s staff was involved in the process.
What’s next? What does the future look like?
We have gained a wealth of information and tools that need to be implemented next in day-to-day activities. Furthermore, we plan to guide Mirka’s other business areas in the same direction, as we have so far focused primarily on power tools.
What would you say to companies considering a transition to the circular economy?
Time is not to be wasted, as the circular economy is undoubtedly a crucial direction to take. While the path may be new, it can be navigated through small steps. It is essential to involve the entire organisation, set measurable and achievable goals, and implement them through repetition and engagement.
It is essential to involve the entire organisation, set measurable and achievable goals, and implement them through repetition and engagement.
