The great hopes in Brussels that a circular bioeconomy will help bridge the growing divide between urban and rural areas and allow the hinterlands to prosper from 'green growth' are addressed in this article, which reflects on insights from three Nordic case studies of brown, green and blue biomass use at different levels of technology readiness. A closer examination of the forward, backward, fiscal and final demand linkages at regional level from increased biomass utilization, from eastern Finland and northern Sweden to Jutland and North Atlantic islands, suggests that linkages are and will remain relatively weak, predominantly dashing the expectations. As suppliers and exporters of natural resources, disadvantaged regions may all too easily get locked into a 'staples trap', where the value
This article studies how two peripheral Nordic regions (Jämtland, Sweden and Kainuu, Finland) have coped with demographic, economic, and sustainability challenges during 2010s. Hard hit by depopulation and globalization, they have implemented many measures to increase vitality, diversification, and sustainability of their economies. The process, the outcome, and local actors’ views have been analysed by utilising perspectives from regional development, smart shrinking, and sustainability transitions literatures. Research results show that Jämtland and Kainuu have succeeded in diversifying their economy, better their employment, and take steps towards sustainability by relying on place-specific resources and on collaboration with external actors. They still have challenges, especially related to demography and regional imbalance, but also potential for a stronger role in achieving national goals for a sustainable, carbon neutral society. Based on these findings, some conclusions concerning the future of these and similar regions and the design of national policies affecting them can be reached.
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