Cooperation moves the developing Kokkola Industrial Park forward
Kokkola Industrial Park (KIP) is the largest chemical and metal processing industry ecosystem in Northern Europe. It is home to 15 international, export-driven manufacturing companies as well as over 60 service companies.
KIP is known for close cooperation. In 2006, the park’s companies decided to establish the unique KIP Association. The association’s main goal is to find solutions to safety and environmental issues.
“We have six teams: Safety, Environment, Energy, ICT, HR, and Marketing. The discussed topics have varied from ways to attract new talents to our region to safety measures during the pandemic. This systematic cooperation not only helps us develop and brand the region, but also improves workers’ skills through knowledge sharing”, explains the association’s Executive Director, Johanna Hylkilä.
Today, KIP is Europe’s forerunner in industrial circular economy.
“What are byproducts or waste for some, are essential raw materials for others. This has been the foundation of KIP since the 60s”, states Tarja Halonen, Chairman of the Board at KIP Association and HR and HSQ Manager at Boliden Kokkola.
The search for new sustainable solutions never stops, however.
“Improving energy efficiency, reducing emissions, and taking care of biodiversity are some of the themes we are focusing on right now. Our member organisations are searching for new technologies both independently and together. We also cooperate with local research and development organisations”, Halonen says.
KIP and the whole region have a promising future. As an area with a large network of manufacturing and service companies as well as excellent logistics, more companies are expected to start business in the area. At the same time, the existing companies are growing steadily – and so is their need for more workforce.
“This is a region of great opportunity for businesses, workers, and jobseekers”, Hylkilä and Halonen state in unison.
