Karin Rosell, Head of Marketing and Communications at Stora Enso’s Biomaterials division, plays a pivotal role in advancing the company’s commitment to sustainability. Stora Enso has long been focused on replacing fossil-based materials with bio-based alternatives, and this dedication is reflected in its cutting-edge innovations in the world of sustainable materials.
One of the most ambitious examples of Stora Enso’s commitment to sustainability is the Yggdrasil prototype. This forward-thinking project has reimagined the meeting space as a place where human, artificial, and natural intelligence can converge. The project, which is supported by Sweden’s innovation agency Vinnova, aimed to demonstrate how biomaterials, biophilic design, and AI can revolutionise the way we interact and work in future workspaces.
The Yggdrasil Prototype: A Space for the Future
Located at Stora Enso’s Innovation Centre for Biomaterials in Sickla, the Yggdrasil prototype was designed as a harmonious meeting space showcasing the potential of bio-based materials. The space was created to reflect the essence of the forest, using natural scents, sounds, and textures to evoke a sense of well-being, creativity, and sustainable decision-making. Key materials used in the Yggdrasil space included NeoLigno®, Papira®, Tree to Textile, and Fabric Forest, all of which demonstrate the possibilities of circular, bio-based alternatives.
The Yggdrasil space does more than just display materials; it also fosters a deeper connection to nature, providing a living example of how sustainability can shape our working environments. As Rosell explains, the space’s design and materials are meant to inspire a more sustainable and connected future for workspaces worldwide.
Koskisen’s Zero Furniture Boards: A Key Component
A vital element in the Yggdrasil project is Koskisen’s Zero furniture board, which incorporates Stora Enso’s innovative NeoLigno® binder. This formaldehyde- and isocyanate-free panel is entirely bio-based, contributing to improved indoor air quality by reducing harmful emissions. In the Yggdrasil prototype, Zero furniture boards were used to create bespoke furniture, showcasing the versatility of bio-based materials in practical applications.
The absence of coatings and veneers on the Zero furniture boards allowed the natural beauty of the material to shine through. The result was a warm, earthy aesthetic that captivated visitors and demonstrated the potential of bio-based materials for creating sustainable, aesthetically pleasing workspaces.
This collaboration between Stora Enso and Koskisen has been multifaceted, with both companies engaging in joint marketing efforts, customer surveys, and promotional campaigns. Rosell highlights the strong synergy between the two companies, emphasising how the Zero furniture boards can help transform workplaces into carbon stores rather than emission sources.
The Voice of the Forest: AI and Nature Integrated
Perhaps one of the most intriguing features of the Yggdrasil prototype was its AI-enhanced component. A small plant-like installation was integrated into the space, designed to listen to conversations and provide insights or summaries of discussions. This interactive element symbolised the “voice of the forest,” embodying the project’s ambition to merge the intelligence of nature with future workspaces.
This innovative feature captivated visitors and served as a reminder that the future of workspaces does not just rely on technology alone but also on integrating nature’s intelligence into everyday environments. The idea behind this integration is to create spaces that not only support productivity but also contribute to the well-being of their occupants.
Global Attention and Future Potential
The Yggdrasil initiative has already generated significant interest from policymakers, designers, and industry leaders. It is under consideration for exhibition at notable venues such as Tekniska Museet and Wood City. This attention underscores the growing importance of sustainability in workspace design and the potential for bio-based materials to revolutionise the industry.
As Rosell puts it, “We need to return to the forest and our roots, especially in the workplace, to ensure we feel good, think clearly, and make better decisions.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the Yggdrasil prototype and the vision that Stora Enso and Koskisen have for the future of sustainable workspaces.
A Vision for the Future
The Yggdrasil prototype represents a significant shift in how companies view materials. It is not only about the products that companies produce but also about the broader impact they can have on the world. By incorporating bio-based materials and innovative design concepts, Stora Enso and Koskisen are leading the way in shaping a more sustainable future for the workplace.
In conclusion, the Yggdrasil prototype serves as a tangible example of how companies are embracing the power of biomaterials, biophilic design, and AI to create future workspaces that are not only functional but also sustainable. Through partnerships like that between Stora Enso and Koskisen, the potential for creating healthier, more sustainable environments for work has never been greater.
About Stora Enso and Koskisen
Stora Enso is a global leader in the field of renewable materials, with a mission to replace fossil-based materials with bio-based alternatives. Its Biomaterials division continues to push the boundaries of material science, developing solutions that benefit both the environment and businesses alike.
Koskisen, a Finnish company, has been at the forefront of developing innovative and sustainable wood-based products. The company’s collaboration with Stora Enso in creating the Zero furniture boards is just one example of how both companies are driving sustainability in the materials sector.
Both companies are working together to bring sustainability to the forefront of workplace design, shaping the future of workspaces globally.
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