From regional research to international collaboration 

Sanna-Joensuu Salo and Kari Laasasenaho lead the Circular Economy POD in the HEROES Alliance. The group generates knowledge that supports SMEs in leveraging circular economy solutions to strengthen competitiveness and sustainable growth.

Sanna Joensuu-Salo, Principal Lecturer and Researcher at SEAMK, co-leads the Circular Economy POD within the HEROES Alliance together with Kari Laasasenaho. The international collaboration brings together experts from different countries to develop solutions for circular economy, sustainable business, and SME competitiveness. 

The collaboration has strengthened international networks, enabled joint research initiatives, and introduced new perspectives on topics such as green finance and sustainability transitions. The research aims to support SMEs in applying circular economy solutions to promote sustainable growth and regional development.