What is KNOF?
KNOF is a social enterprise on a mission to develop solutions and products that reduce or prevent waste generation. It’s all about encouraging companies and individuals to embrace more sustainable ways of operating, behaving, and doing business—through social innovation, reuse, and recycling. At its core, KNOF supports the implementation of sustainability strategies from concept all the way to realization. This means designing sustainable business models, creating material loops, and bringing products to life—not just on paper, but in practice. The magic happens in the largest circular laboratory in Slovenia, where concrete solutions are developed and tested.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
KNOF’s impact is impressive and measurable. Here are some of the key facts that highlight its success:
- Thousands of kilograms of separately collected waste diverted for reuse and recycling
- Significant savings in greenhouse gas emissions thanks to circular processes
- Employment opportunities created for numerous individuals
- Training and inclusion programs for people from vulnerable groups
Innovative Products and Solutions
KNOF offers a variety of innovative products made from recycled and upcycled materials. For example, the KNOFTEX acoustic insulating panels are crafted from recycled clothing, featuring natural organic binders and customizable colors. Then there’s KNOFMOWA, a modular partition wall made from 98% recycled materials, perfect for offices or exhibitions, saving 80 kg of CO2 emissions per square meter. And don’t forget KNOFBORD, recycled panels ideal for interiors and furniture, which save 90% of CO2 emissions compared to virgin plastic. These products aren’t just eco-friendly—they’re practical and stylish too.
Supporting Sustainable Business Practices
KNOF partners with companies that recognize the potential of sustainable business. Whether it’s helping with green public procurement, equipment renewal projects, or implementing sustainable strategies, KNOF acts as a valuable ally in the transition to a circular economy. Plus, their sustainable business gifts—like upcycled socks and tote bags made from waste textiles—are a great way to support local partnerships while reducing environmental impact. It’s all about making sustainability accessible and impactful.
Community Engagement and Circular Economy Initiatives
One standout initiative is the KNOFCYCLE program, which helps individuals and companies responsibly get rid of excess clothing. Donations can be made from the comfort of home or office, and donors receive vouchers for KNOF products. This ensures local reuse, processing, and recycling, keeping the circular economy thriving within Slovenia. The KNOF FashionBOX project also promotes local reuse by offering medium-quality clothing at affordable prices, reducing the environmental risks associated with exporting used clothes abroad.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
The Circular Lab: Where Ideas Come to Life
The beating heart of KNOF is the Circular Lab in Krško, a 3,000 m² testing ground dedicated to developing circular business models and social innovations. Here, companies and organizations collaborate to find solutions for reusing industrial waste and designing products that reduce waste generation. It’s a dynamic space where ideas are not just dreamed up but tested, refined, and brought to life—turning sustainability from a buzzword into real-world impact.
