SUCCeSS in Graz – New Collaborations in Circular Economy and Sustainable Cities
From May 5–7, Rana Mostaghel from SUCCeSS participated in the Nordic–Austrian Circular Futures Exchange 2026 in Graz, a Nordic-Austrian initiative focused on sustainable, climate-resilient cities and the circular economy. The programme brought together researchers, companies, public-sector representatives, and innovation leaders from across the Nordic region and Austria for several days of knowledge exchange and networking.
The delegation visited Saubermacher AG to learn more about innovative waste management and resource recovery solutions, participated in expert sessions on timber construction and bioeconomy together with Woodcluster Steiermark, and explored Ressourcenpark Graz, a flagship regional initiative for sustainable resource management and circular economy practices.
Participants included representatives from academia, industry, and innovation organisations, among them Amir Rashid, Evelina Lundqvist, Ralf Paul Jung, and several Nordic stakeholders working with sustainability and circular economy initiatives.
The visit resulted in many interesting discussions and several concrete opportunities for continued collaboration. SUCCeSS will invite University of Graz and Evelina Lundqvist from The Good Tribe to participate in upcoming lunch webinars.
Next week, Ralf Paul Jung from Resand will also visit Stockholm Resilience Centre, providing an opportunity to introduce him to colleagues within SUCCeSS and continue discussions on circular solutions and sustainable societal systems.
Another important outcome of the exchange of PhD students to participate in the PhD courses offered by SU.
A particular highlight of the visit was the Nordic Night in Graz – Sustainable Circular Cities of the Future, hosted at WKO Steiermark (chamber of commerce). The event gathered Nordic and Austrian leaders from academia, industry, and policy to discuss how circular economy solutions can support the transition toward more sustainable and climate-resilient cities. Sweden’s ambassador welcomed the delegation personally.
The evening featured panel discussions with Nordic experts, presentations from innovative companies including Resand, Lendager, Snøhetta, and Wehlers, as well as discussions on circular gastronomy and sustainable food systems. The event provided an excellent platform for strengthening Nordic-Austrian collaboration and creating new connections for future research and innovation initiatives.
Last updated: 2026-05-13
Source: Department of Social Work