EriCa Green Chemistry Park opens in Finnoo, Espoo

The joint construction and innovation investment by Kemira, A. Ahlström Kiinteistöt Oy, the Church Pension Fund, and Aktia Life Insurance – EriCa Green Chemistry Park – has been completed in Finnoo, Espoo. The project was announced in spring 2021, and construction began in spring 2023 after the zoning became legally binding. Now, this unique business and science hub is ready and has been handed over to its users.

EriCa Green Chemistry Park is a pioneering project in green chemistry and sustainable development. It offers state-of-the-art facilities for research and development in the chemical industry, bringing together leading players, startups, and research institutes in the field. Kemira is the primary user of the site and will relocate to the new premises in 2025. Kemira’s research center has operated in the area since 1972, and now operations will continue in even more modern facilities.

The building features shared office space, a conference center, and a shared laboratory – operated by Crazy Town Oy – set to be completed in early 2026, as well as the Ravintola Factory lunch restaurant. In addition, there is high-quality laboratory space available for rent to other chemical research companies.

“Kemira has conducted research and development in Finnoo, Espoo, for over 50 years, and in the new research center, this work will continue in an even more collaborative model,” says Kemira’s Sampo Lahtinen, EVP, Research & Innovation. “The EriCa project is a significant strategic investment for us, and it’s great that we have started moving into these top-class facilities. The Espoo research center will continue to be a cornerstone of Kemira’s research and innovation work.”

“At A. Ahlström, together with our investment partners, the Church Pension Fund and Aktia Life Insurance, we see EriCa not only as a high-quality real estate investment but also as a strategically significant contribution to strengthening Finland’s competitiveness. Growing deep tech companies need not only office space but also high-quality development environments. EriCa meets this need and supports the development of the innovation ecosystem in Finland,” says Jyrki Vainionpää, CEO of A. Ahlström.

“As a green economy hub, EriCa makes Espoo an even stronger leader in sustainable development. I am proud that we are home to such a significant innovation cluster that brings green chemistry solutions to the world,” says Espoo Mayor Kai Mykkänen.

The goal of the EriCa project has been to create a responsible and innovative ecosystem that supports sustainable development and enables collaboration among industry. Architecture, natural light, and adaptable spaces support research, collaboration, and wellbeing. Energy-efficient systems and sustainable materials support long-term sustainability goals. Project has been built according to the BREEAM environmental certification, aiming for an Excellent rating.

Read more: www.ericagcp.fi