Solutions that meet global challenges
In 2024, IVL continued to strengthen its international presence while contributing to solutions that address global challenges. We continue to focus on achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goal 17 on partnerships.
The 2024 financial year marked an intensification of these efforts, with Sweden’s expertise and innovation making an impact on everything from sustainable energy use to circular economies and climate adaptation.
One of the most notable projects of the year was launched in India, where IVL is partnering with Swedish and Indian stakeholders to develop a solution for reusing surplus heat from the incineration of medical waste. This excess heat is used to power the waste facility and could also be used to cool large facilities in the future. The project, which is being funded by Vinnova and India's Department of Science and Technology, illustrates how Swedish technical expertise in industrial heat recovery can create environmental, economic and social benefits.
In Côte d'Ivoire, IVL is helping to create a framework for a sustainable bioenergy sector, with a focus on directly implementing second-generation biofuels. This effort positions the country as a potential global pioneer.
IVL has also provided support to Swedfund in projects aimed at developing sustainable solutions in public transport, biogas and renewable energy in Nigeria, Brazil, Colombia and Côte d'Ivoire. IVL experts have provided technical support in procurement, quality control and strategic advice.
SIWI-WASH strengthens IVL’s international footprint
IVL's subsidiary, EPD International, is intensifying its efforts in several countries where there is an interest and need to credibly demonstrate the climate performance of various products and services. During the year, we reached more than 10,000 registered environmental product declarations in several countries.
In Sweden, IVL plays a key role in the strategic innovation programme Water Wise Societies, which ensures that Swedish water solutions have a strong international link. By integrating global innovations and experiences, the programme contributes to a more effective climate transition. The programme started in March. IVL is also involved in the ShiftSweden programme, which focuses on sustainable societal transformations.
IVL has also taken a significant step towards strengthening its international expertise in water-related issues through the acquisition of SIWI-WASH, the Stockholm International Water Institute's water, sanitation and hygiene operation. Due to the acquisition, IVL will welcome 16 new colleagues from SIWI-WASH in spring 2025.
“IVL has several areas that can strengthen the important work of SIWI-WASH, which has attracted the attention of organisations such as UNICEF. International capacity building is a central part of our new IVL 2030 strategy, so when SIWI's board raised the question of an acquisition, the decision was easy”, says IVL's CEO John Rune Nielsen.
Together, IVL and SIWI-WASH are strengthening their capacity to deliver innovative solutions in water, sanitation and hygiene at a global level, with the ambition to meet some of the world's biggest challenges related to climate and water.
Increased environmental benefits through global action
IVL's work in China has continued with the SAFE research project. With funding from the EU, this project helps to reduce food waste by promoting more efficient packaging and distribution practices, as well as optimising the use of plant protection products and fertilizers.
IVL's international engagement demonstrates the power of collaboration and innovation to meet the challenges facing the world. By combining Swedish expertise and global collaboration, IVL contributes to increased environmental benefits through initiatives in the global arena.