To solve a problem, you must be able to really see the problems around you, that is the essence of design thinking.
By Marcus Stensland
Associate professor at Engage, Marianne Arntzen-Nordqvist opened with these words at the workshop “Grønsj”. As a part of the week-long recycling festival in Bodø called “Gjenbruksuka”, Engage, Bodø commune and Kraft teamed up to offer a workshop that focuses on new ways of thinking.
– I think the problems arounds circular economy and reusable products are often overlooked, but I feel it is very important to focus on.
Therese Meyer
The festival, which saw several activities and events happening around Bodø, was created to showcase arenas where the people of Bodø can learn about recycling and circular economic principles. This is to encourage using belongings longer and reducing waste. The project group behind the festival is Bodø commune, Iris Salten, Nord University, and Red Cross.
Showcased existing projects
Grønsj started with a short seminar by Julie Hinderaker Hagevik from Bodø commune, who emphasized the importance of reusable and circular thinking, and how we can use innovation to solve numerous issues around the matter. She also showcased some already existing projects in Bodø which heavily rely on circular thinking, like the food saving service “Toogoodtogo”.
Participants were then split into groups to compete against each other. The goal was to come up with an innovative product or service that builds upon the principles of reusability and circular economy. The winning team would receive a prize of 5000 kroner.
Think green
The workshop welcomed several participants, all eager to learn about circular economy and new ways to re-use their personal items. We spoke to one of the teams to get a closer view on how they think regarding the problem. Torbjørn Skjørholm reflects on the workshop.
– I think this is an excellent arena to meet others with the same interests as myself and find interesting ways to think green. I also think it’s exciting to see that people are interested in the same things despite coming from very different backgrounds.
Torbjørn was teamed up with Alexander Irgens and Therese Meyer, who both were motivated to learn more about the matter.
– I saw an ad online for the workshop and I thought it seemed interesting, so I thought why not go? I love getting some insight into what circular economy means and the process around it, Irgens said.
– I think the problems arounds circular economy and reusable products are often overlooked, but I feel it is very important to focus on, Meyer adds.