The challenge
The development of consumer society has led to increasing use of natural resources, bringing environmental, social and economic challenges. Growing waste generation, pollution and the depletion of natural resources make it increasingly important to introduce and promote circular economy principles.
The circular economy is not only an environmental issue, it is a systemic change that affects production, consumption and values. It is based on sharing, borrowing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products for as long as possible. The need was to introduce these topics more widely, to companies, consumers and students alike.
The format
The Tallinn Business Incubator commissioned a educational exhibition for its new building. Created together with the company Heya Visual and circular economy experts, the exhibition helps visitors understand the circular economy in a practical and interactive way, offering opportunities to test their knowledge, experiment with new ideas and gain inspiration for more conscious choices.
Real-life examples from companies already implementing circular economy principles are presented through videos, texts and products. The exhibition introduces the foundations of the circular economy to companies in the incubator's programmes and trainings, as well as to guests at conferences and seminars.
The response
The exhibition offers a valuable experience for everyone who wishes to better understand the opportunities of the circular economy and its role in a resource-efficient future.
Mirell Merirand, an entrepreneurship and economics teacher at Tallinna Vanalinna Hariduskolleegium, reported that the interactive format let students read, touch and better understand why the circular economy matters. The visit provided food for thought about the proper use of materials, and several students mentioned afterwards that it made them reflect on their own consumption habits. The exhibition also gave the school new materials and ideas for its economics course.
What other cities can reuse
A permanent, interactive exhibition gives an incubator a lasting tool to introduce circular thinking to companies, students and event guests. The circular economy is not only a topic for businesses or policymakers, it concerns us all.
A larger budget would have allowed more interactivity, games and hands-on outcomes to deepen visitor engagement.
Budget
The exhibition was delivered on a budget of 29,999 euros. For that budget, the team considers the interactivity and the educational level high, and is satisfied with the result.
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