Kera district: Transformation of a Traditional Industrial Area into a Low-carbon, 20-minute Neighbourhood | Knowledge Hub | Circle Economy Foundation
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Policy case
Kera district: Transformation of a Traditional Industrial Area into a Low-carbon, 20-minute Neighbourhood
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The Kera district in Espoo, Finland, is undergoing a significant transformation from a former industrial area into a circular, mixed-use neighbourhood housing 14,000 residents. As part of Espoo’s sustainability program, the project integrates circular economy principles, low-carbon construction, renewable energy systems, sustainable mobility, and digital solutions.

Problem

The main goal was to ensure a sustainable urban environment while reducing the demand for new raw materials. With this level of ambition, setting clear and long-term targets and objectives has been crucial to the project’s success so far. 

Solution

The Kera district redevelopment plan combines circular and low-carbon measures, serving as a testbed for Espoo's sustainability goals. Measures included reusing materials such as steel beams, concrete slabs, and columns from demolished buildings for new construction projects. Demolition waste was recycled using recycled soils, including concrete aggregates for asphalt and earthworks. Establishing a temporary storage area for secondary materials and a dedicated reuse centre for long-term material repurposing was also part of the implemented solutions. Carbon-binding materials and renewable energy technologies additionally supported the district’s carbon neutrality goals.

An 85,000 m² network of green spaces, including a central park, was additionally integrated to enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services. The soil was rehabilitated and reused within new developments.

From a social perspective, spaces were temporarily used for cultural and awareness-raising events, urban agriculture, and recreational activities (e.g., transforming a logistics centre into a hub for street art and exercise). Additionally, collaborative management systems enabled resident participation in decision-making.

Outcome

The reuse and recycling of materials have significantly reduced the demand for virgin resources and the environmental footprint of construction activities. Green infrastructure supports urban biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and ecosystem services, while renewable energy systems and low-carbon solutions contribute to climate neutrality.

The redevelopment is projected to transform the area into a vibrant hub, introducing 14,000 new homes and creating 10,000 employment opportunities centred around sustainable urban development services. Resident participation helps enhance community engagement and ownership of the redevelopment process.

The "Kera Area Development Commitment," established through the land-use agreement, sets clear objectives and circular principles to guide all projects spanning from the 2020s to the 2040s. The document will ensure flexibility to address evolving needs and technologies while maintaining consistent progress toward sustainability goals. Kera will serve as a testbed for circular urban development, offering insights and replicable practices for other cities in Finland and Europe.

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