Introduction

Small and medium-sized enterprises face increasing demands related to sustainability and climate impact. At the same time, many lack the knowledge and resources needed to address these challenges strategically within their own operations. The life cycle perspective is a method that examines the full life cycle of a product or service. By applying this perspective, companies can identify where impacts and opportunities are greatest, enabling them to manage resource use and environmental impact more effectively.

Aim & Objectives

This project aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises in their work with sustainability and introduce the life cycle perspective. By applying this approach, companies can gain a broader understanding of their environmental impact and identify areas for improvement across the entire value chain. The project will strengthen companies’ ability to apply a life cycle perspective by providing a platform for learning, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. Through individual advisory, joint working group meetings, and access to capacity-building resources, participating companies will gradually build their knowledge. 

Expected outcomes

The project is expected to increase understanding of environmental impacts and promote more integrated sustainability practices among small and medium-sized enterprises in Sweden. It will strengthen their capacity to work strategically with sustainability from a life cycle perspective and improve their preparedness to meet future regulatory and customer demands. Over time, the project aims to enhance companies’ competitiveness and support the development of circular and resource-efficient products and business models.

The work is carried out within Net Zero Industry, a joint initiative by Vinnova, Formas, and the Swedish Energy Agency within the framework of Impact Innovation.