Circular Design Training Program

The project’s primary objective was to develop a modular and adaptable Circular Design Training Module that equips designers with actionable tools and methods to create sustainable and circular so...

The project’s primary objective was to develop a modular and adaptable Circular Design Training Module that equips designers with actionable tools and methods to create sustainable and circular solutions. Additional goals included: ● Raising awareness of the importance of systemic and future foresight skills among designers, ● Supporting the upskilling and reskilling of practicing designers, ● Strengthening collaboration between education, industry, and design organizations, ● Ensuring all materials are freely accessible to promote long-term use and adaptation. The project aimed to provide designers with practical knowledge and tools while increasing institutional capacity to strategically address sustainability challenges.

The project used a co-design methodology, organizing multiple workshops and discussions in Estonia and Finland with educators, students, design professionals, and international experts. Activities included: ● Researching and documenting best practices and barriers in circular design education, ● Co-developing the course structure with input from stakeholders, ● Regular partner meetings and online collaboration to ensure smooth implementation, ● Engaging experts such as Leyla Acaroglu to integrate global perspectives, ● Testing and validating parts of the course structure with designers and educators. These activities created a collaborative process that not only delivered a comprehensive training module but also strengthened cooperation between partner institutions.

The project delivered the Circular Design Training Module, called Beyond Circular Design—a comprehensive, openly accessible framework for integrating circular economy and systemic design principles into design education and professional training. Outputs included: ● A best practices report analyzing existing circular design training approaches and identifying opportunities and barriers, ● A well-documented and modular course structure (15 ECTS), available online, ● An engaged network of design educators and practitioners in Estonia and Finland. The results are designed for long-term use, scaling, and adaptation by design schools, professional training providers, and industry. The project strengthened partnerships and positioned both Estonia and Finland as leaders in circular design education development.