Cirdustry is a website maintained by the Circular Business Models research group at Turku University of Applied Sciences, which researches and shares information on circularity of vehicles. The research group solves obstacles and develops solutions for circularity in the Circular Economy Lab project learning environment, where experiments and development projects based on the needs of companies are carried out together with students from different fields.

Circdustry aims to foster a collaborative network among industry players focused on circular automotive dismantling and component reuse. By collaborating with companies, researchers, and authorities, Circdustry has a role in developing an ecosystem based on domestic expertise that creates new, sustainable industry.

The goal of the Circdustry network is to transform the automotive industry and vehicle recycling, steering them toward a resource-efficient, low-carbon, and circular future.

A key objective is to improve the vehicle dismantling process. Circdustry tests new dismantling methods, automation, and digital solutions designed to make the process more efficient, safer, and cost-effective.

In addition, Circdustry aims to increase the use of recycled materials. When a vehicle reaches the end of its life cycle, the primary approach is to utilize usable components either as-is or as refurbished spare parts. Only then are the materials directed toward recycling, ensuring they are as clean as possible and can be efficiently utilized. The result is an increased use of recycled automotive materials in the production of new vehicles, thereby reducing the automotive industry’s reliance on raw materials.

The network is developing new methods for separating and processing materials—such as plastics, glass, metals, and electronics—to preserve their value and enable their use in new products. The goal is to improve material quality, purity, and traceability throughout the value chain.

Circdustry also pursues broader environmental and societal objectives:

• Reducing natural resource consumption and emissions
• Minimizing waste
• Ensuring the availability of critical materials
• Advancing the EU’s green transition goals

At the same time, new business opportunities and collaborations are being established among companies, research institutions, and the public sector. Circular economy solutions open up new markets and strengthen the sector’s competitiveness both in Finland and internationally.