Ragn-Sells participation in UNEA-7

UNEA-7 is the seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), which is the main global decision-making body on environmental issues under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet is this year’s theme. Circularity is solidly on the agenda this year as a solution to achieve a resilient planet.

Ragn-Sells Group shared several solutions to support the transformation from wastewater to resource recovery plants via EasyMining and Chromafora. Pär also presented solutions for converting wastewater treatment plants into resource recovery plants; showcased the potential of fish sludge as a resource with the AQUAPHOENIX project for aquaculture production, and highlighted the importance of removing PFAS from industrial wastewater and hotspots.

“With the UNEA7 concluded, my reflection is that circularity is needed to reduce the risk of overshooting planetary boundaries, reduce poverty, and enable sustainable growth. I met with several stakeholders from across our planet, and we all share the view that much needs to be done. Circularity was indeed included in many sessions and is part of the final document from UNEA-7. I also met to discuss the circularity with EU Commissioner Jessika Roswall.” 

Pär spoke on two panels related to circularity:

The first in the role of Ragn-Sells’ Chief Sustainability Officer representing the private sector and highlighting the circular solutions we have developed. There was also a focus on the AQUAPHOENIX project that includes a circular system to utilise the value in fish sludge, as well as our upcoming two factories in Europe that aim to export phosphorus to Canada, where biosolids make up its origin. This in a partnership with Friesen Group of Companies.

In the second session, Pär represented the International Chamber of Commerce, where he focused on the changing environment that the waste sector will need to adapt to. Digitalisation enables traceability and makes waste content visible. He also focused on the potential to reform global treaties (Basel Convention, WTO and the WCO HS codes).

View the two sessions here:

1. Wastewater as a solution
   Wastewater is a valuable resource and a hidden connector. From reuse and nutrient recovery to renewable energy production and public health surveillance for ecosystem protection, wastewater offers multiple opportunities. This event explored how wastewater can turn challenges into solutions, showcasing examples from ongoing initiatives, and projects that demonstrate practical, scalable approaches to climate resilience, resource recovery, and healthier communities.
2. Digital Product Information Systems for a resilient planet: Advancing circularity and transparency
   As the environmental impacts of products like electronics and textiles intensify—through growing waste streams, hazardous substances, and complex global supply chains—Digital Product Information Systems (DPIS), including digital product passports and traceability platforms, have emerged as powerful tools to enable circularity, enhance chemicals transparency, and support informed environmental decision-making. This session included real-world examples of DPIS pilots in both the electronics and textile sectors, highlighting how digital tools support Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), sustainable waste management, and value chain transparency.

Organisations involved include UN Environment Programme, Global Wastewater Initiative (GWWI), UNEP DHI Partnership - Centre on Water and Environment, Climate & Clean Air Coalition (CCAC), UNEA, European Commission , CapNet, SHF, UNDCF, UN Water, IWA, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), The World Bank, Water Global Practice, UNEP Ukraine, Global Methane Pledge, Global Center on Adaptation (GCA), Embassy of Belgium Kenya, Young Champions of the Earth.