Circular economy for the energy transition in Saint Petersburg, Russia

Abstract

The pathway to a low-carbon future is circular. Circular economy and the optimization of resources used in the energy system can be seen as a way to improve energy self-sufficiency. In St. Petersburg, stakeholders of International Innovation Forum and International Economic Forum 2018 have discussed foreign experience and circular economy in Russia, and found several solutions. Representatives from Business Finland partnership shared their experience – how environmentally friendly technologies become profitable business. FIRO-O, OptiKom, Charity second-hand store “Spasibo”, Baltika Brewery (Carlsberg group) and St. Petersburg Urban Eco-Cluster are given as successful examples of circular economy principles in Russia and St. Petersburg. Moscow and Saint Petersburg have different programs under the local authorities’ support in the sphere of environmentally-friendly development. Infrastructure of the Russian regions needs more attention and support from all the stakeholders: the business, the government and the society. The triangle cooperation (business-government-society) is needed. Russian company’s cooperation and integration into the global networks of ecologically responsible businesses could lead to the easier and faster solutions.