Mirka Explores Regenerative Materials

Under Ytan specialises in the cultivation and harvesting of algae from the Baltic Sea, applying regenerative methods that contribute to restoring the Baltic Sea by improving marine conditions and enhancing biodiversity. Their work represents a unique intersection of environmental restoration and material innovation, transforming an ecological challenge into a potential resource.

'At Mirka, we continuously explore new ways to advance circular innovation and reduce the environmental impact of the surface finishing industry through our solutions. This collaboration allows us to deepen our understanding of emerging regenerative raw materials and their potential as alternatives to more traditional, wood-based resources,' says Mats Sundell, chief technology officer at Mirka.

Wood-based materials are renewable, but large-scale forestry can impact biodiversity by simplifying ecosystems and reducing 
natural habitat diversity. Hence, renewability alone does not guarantee environmental sustainability. In contrast, regenerative approaches aim not just to replace what is used but to actively improve ecosystems. This is where alternatives such as marine-based biomass become interesting since they can be produced in ways that restore natural environments rather than deplete them.

'Our mission is to develop marine restoration systems as a basis for regenerative business. We are focusing on entire value chains through collaboration with a broad set of partners. This collaboration connects our regenerative approach with strong industrial expertise and innovation capabilities,' says Joel Lindholm, CEO at Under Ytan.

The collaboration also links to the broader SHAPE ecosystem driven by Mirka, fostering cross-industry innovation and accelerating the development of more sustainable material solutions.

For more information:
Chief Technology Officer Mats Sundell, phone +358 40 094 8019