“I believe circularity will play an increasingly important role in the future. It is not just about decarbonisation – although that is obviously a key driver – but also about addressing other pressing challenges such as biodiversity loss and strengthening resilient supply chains.”

Velux is working with ArcelorMittal to decarbonise steel production. How does this partnership contribute to your circularity goals?

Our cooperation with ArcelorMittal is one for the present and the future. This long-term vision makes it possible to set joint goals and clear milestones. This further ensures investment security for both partners.

But our collaboration goes beyond mere planning. For example, we actively communicate our joint efforts to drive change in the industry. On a practical level, we co-engineer new products and explore ways to reduce emissions – not only during production, but in transportation too.

Putting circularity front and centre within an organisation is no easy task. What challenges have you encountered along the way?

One of the most important aspects of circularity is the realisation that it has a transformative effect on a business. It is not just a series of measures – it also requires a profound change in the way we work.

Fortunately, the circular economy also offers many opportunities to develop new business models, especially when you’re playing the long game. Today the focus of many companies is still very much on increasing production volumes, but we need to adjust our mindset. Circularity requires us to break the link between resource use and economic growth – undoubtedly a mental shift, but essential for a future-proof economy.

I believe circularity will play an increasingly important role in the future. It is not just about decarbonisation – although that is obviously a key driver – but also about addressing other pressing issues such as biodiversity loss and supply chains resilience.

What practical tips do you have for companies that want to use the reduce, reuse, recycle principle?

Before anything else: measure your impact. Sustainability starts with understanding where you are today so you can focus on the biggest levers. For manufacturing companies, it is crucial to rethink product design. A pilot project can be valuable, but avoid focusing on initiatives that ultimately make little difference in your overall footprint – consciously choose actions that generate real impact.

In addition: don’t forget your customers. Sometimes we are so busy improving existing solutions that we lose sight of whether those solutions are still the right ones. True innovation starts with rethinking how we address customer needs.