Jalotus – Transition Movement Finland, located in Helsinki Ring of Industry, has launched a transition movement that brings together sustainability advocates from across Finland.
Set in a charming rural landscape, the area exudes a strong sense of circular economy, since the oldest buildings on the Kerava Manor estate dating back to the 1600s. Sustainable construction was also a focal point at New Era Building and Housing Festival (URF) by the city of Kerava, held in the area during the summer of 2024, in which Jalotus was a collaborator.
Jalotus has a wide range of activities: from woodworking and Remake upcycling sewing studio to researchers and innovators. “For example, specialists from Origin by Ocean built a pilot breeding tank for the eco-friendly sea algae, bladderwrack, at the Jalotus facilities, and we’ve been involved in several biochar-related projects. We’re eager to help companies make their existing products even more eco-friendly,” says Anna Evilä, who founded Jalotus in 2019.
Sustainable Efforts have been Awarded
Jalotus’ unique work has gained also international recognition. They have been selected to represent Finland in the Transition Network and named Finland’s national transition hub — a place that supports the establishment and operation of similar sustainable living movements. Additionally, Jalotus is a member of the European Ecolise network.
“There is no other transition movement of this size in Finland, although various climate actions are widely undertaken on a smaller scale. However, networking is crucial to spreading successful experiments globally and sharing the lessons learned. We are also involved in several projects, for example, the Communities for Climate (C4C) project,” Anna explains. The C4C pilot project is part of a European Commission-funded initiative led by AEIDL and includes ECOLISE, REScoop.eu, DRIFT, and a group of national and thematic experts.
A Eureka for Sustainable Living
Jalotus’ farm is a learning environment, were anyone interested in the topic can explore on-site. There are several examples of nutrient recycling in the area, which visitors can read more about on the signboards connected to them – the information is also available in English and there are illustrative pictures attached. Nutrient recycling promotes the natural reuse of nutrients and biomass, reducing water eutrophication and the need for mineral-rich fertilizers.
Vision of the Jalotus movement is to help 200,000 Finns transition to a sustainable lifestyle by 2030, representing about 3.5% of the country’s population. “Research shows that this is the critical mass needed for the transition movement to succeed,” Anna explains. “In addition to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, sustainability also encompasses ecological footprints and sustainable well-being, which includes caring for physical, mental, and social well-being. To address these themes, we have developed our own method at Jalotus, called “Elämänjalotus” (“Life refinement”). It compiles sustainable living practices, actions, and research findings. During our free, publicly accessible course, participants can examine their own values and create a plan for a more sustainable lifestyle,” she continues.
In the spring, Elämänjalotus was also launched as an online course funded by Sitra.
Together Towards a Better Life and Sustainable Well-being
Community and the sharing economy are fundamental principles at Jalotus: The center is home to sheep, chickens, and rabbits, whose care is shared by local areas’ residents, “city farmers,” throughout the year. “Participants receive thorough training before they can participant in animal care. We have families with children, immigrants, and retirees involved,” says Sanna Iranta, Jalotus’ community manager.
In spring 2024, Jalotus also launched its own community farm, “Jalopelto,” offering an easy way to support sustainable food culture and learn more about organic farming. “After paying the harvest fee, participants can either only enjoy the harvest or take part in farm maintenance under the guidance of professional gardeners,” she adds.
The easiest way to participate in the Jalotus activities is through a weekly program that teaches sustainable living skills and aims to reduce loneliness. “Over 1,600 people participated in our open activities just this spring,” Sanna enthusiastically reports. The activity is part of Jalotus’ Sustainable Living Inclusion Program funded by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health.
Jalotus – Transition Movement Finland
The Jalotus has a wide range of activities: from woodworking and Remake upcycling sewing studio to researchers and innovators.
They have been selected to represent Finland in the Transition Network and named Finland’s national transition hub – a place that supports the establishment and operation of similar sustainable living movements. Additionally, Jalotus is a member of the European Ecolise network.
