Case Norway | Mobile Waste‑Sorting Trailer Demonstrates a Replicable Circular Service Model

Authors: Marjoriikka Ylisiurua and Minna Kulju from VTT, and Stein Cato Røsnæs from County of Østfold

A mobile waste‑sorting trailer demonstrates how circular practices can be strengthened through commercial solutions that are easy to deploy. It provides an intriguing example for SMEs across regions to develop new circular services, support events in meeting their environmental objectives, and introduce circular practices to diverse audiences.

A mobile waste‑sorting trailer developed in Viken, Norway, has become a practical solution for improving waste sorting at major public events. First deployed in 2023, it has toured the Tall Ships Races in Fredrikstad, the Tour of Scandinavia cycling event and the Markens Grøde agricultural fair. The unit provides a visible sorting point and engages large audiences in simple circular practices.

From Certification to Concept Development

The idea for the trailer emerged when the Tour of Scandinavia event received Eco‑Lighthouse certification in 2022. As part of the certification process, organisers reviewed how waste was handled during the race and identified a lack of mobile sorting options suitable for fast‑moving, multi‑location events. Existing solutions relied on static infrastructure or temporary stations that were difficult to operate with limited staff. The need for a transportable, easy‑to‑use system became clear.

Circular Service Model with Business Potential

While the waste-sorting trailer was initially created to address operational needs at events, it has also demonstrated potential as a replicable circular service model. Event organisers often require support with sorting, signage, visitor guidance and data collection, creating demand for circularity‑as‑a‑service packages. A mobile trailer provides a modular solution that bundles equipment, on‑site operation and simple engagement activities.

The entry barrier for local entrepreneurs is moderate. Once the core design and operational practices are established, similar trailers can be built or leased and operated as part of a touring service. Companies can integrate the trailer into existing waste‑management contracts or offer it independently to municipalities, festivals and community events. Additional services, such as deposit handling, contamination monitoring or data reporting, could be included to help event organisers meet their circularity targets.

Several revenue channels could be projected to support this kind of operation, including service fees from event organisers, long‑term municipal agreements, sponsorship visibility on the trailer and educational programme bookings. In combination, this might make the model economically feasible more broadly.

Engagement as Part of the Operation

To increase visibility and improve understanding of sorting practices, the Norwegian waste-sorting trailer has been accompanied by short educational sessions at selected events. National children’s TV presenter Asgeir Borgemoen has hosted demonstrations explaining how the trailer works, how materials can be recycled and how food waste contributes to environmental impacts.

Interactive elements, such as a QR‑code quiz and a sorting relay, helped attract visitors and encouraged participation. Teachers attending the events with their students expressed interest in adapting the content for school activities, extending the reach beyond event audiences.

Replication Tips

Experience from the pilot trailer highlights several features that can be adopted by organisers or SMEs developing circular services:

• A single, clearly branded sorting point helps reduce contamination in waste streams.
• Short, on‑site educational moments increase visitor engagement and improve correct sorting.
• Collaboration with local waste operators ensures appropriate fractions and handling routes.
• The mobility makes the trailer adaptable to different event types, as also rural events outside the urban infrastructure can be attended.