Responsibility
Soihtu develops and maintains student housing in accordance with the principles of sustainable development. For us, responsibility means balancing environmental impacts, residents’ wellbeing, and sustainable business operations.
Our goal is to build and maintain affordable, functional, and responsible housing in Jyväskylä.
Responsibility measures at Soihtu
Responsibility is part of our daily operations. We utilize new technologies, develop our practices, and collaborate with residents and partners. Our aim is to create living environments that are sustainable, comfortable, and functional—now and in the future.
Renovation of the Kortepohja Student Village Tower Buildings
JYY was the first in Finland to receive green financing granted by MuniFin for the renovation of the tower buildings in the Kortepohja student village.
The Housing Finance and Development Centre of Finland (ARA, now VARKE) awarded the “Best ARA Square Meters of the Year 2023” recognition to the renovation and area development project of the Kortepohja student village. The project’s regenerative renovation was considered an exceptional success story, also excellently meeting the goals of the circular economy.
Carbon and Biodiversity Footprint Assessment
In a joint research project, JYU.Wisdom examined the carbon and biodiversity footprint of JYY’s most significant procurements and operations, as well as its advocacy work and the Soihtu business entity.
A biodiversity footprint refers to the negative impact that an individual or organization has on nature and its diversity. The international scientific community holds that climate change and biodiversity loss must be solved simultaneously.
Improving Energy Efficiency
Over the past decade, we have actively improved the energy efficiency of our properties. In 2016, the first energy program for our property portfolio was completed, outlining the path for future improvements in energy efficiency.
In January 2021, Soihtu’s residential properties began using Alva’s Green Heat. Currently, we are transitioning several properties to consumption-based water billing, which has been proven to reduce water usage.
Our first new building with energy class A was completed in 2022.
Tenant Advisory Services as Part of Soihtu’s Services
Tenant advisory is preventive homelessness work and, above all, about supporting residents in challenging housing situations.
With Soihtu’s own housing advisory services, we are able to ensure the continuation of housing even in difficult situations.
We also provide neighbor mediation using restorative mediation methods.
Sharing and Circular Economy to Support Everyday Life
At the core of our operations is making students’ everyday life smoother. Not everything needs to be owned—some items can be shared with neighbors. In our residential properties, shared use of goods and means of transport as well as urban gardening are part of daily life.
At the exchange point, residents can recycle items they no longer need and take useful finds free of charge. Residents in Soihtu housing communities have many opportunities to influence their living environment and the development of community life.
Sustainable Village Campaign
The Sustainable Village campaign invites all Soihtu residents to help build a more sustainable and community-oriented living environment.
During the campaign, students receive tips for responsible everyday living, as well as support for recycling and sustainable housing.
The goal of the campaign is to create a permanent model that supports students’ sustainable choices, community spirit, and smooth everyday life.
Sustainability at Soihtu
A new Swap Market brought circular economy back to the Student Village
A new swap market has opened in the Student Village, offering an easy and communal way to give items a new life. At the swap market, residents can bring items they no longer need but that are still in good condition, and take something useful in…
Sustainable Village brings students together on May 22 – join us in making everyday life more sustainable!
What would a student community look like where items are reused, bikes stay in good shape, and creativity thrives? Come and experience it at the Sustainable Village event on Thursday, May 22, from 12 to 18 at Rentukka Square. The event offers a…
Sustainable Living Info Event at Lillukka on February 11
Make your daily life more sustainable and join the Sustainable Living info event on Wednesday, February 11, from 4–6 PM at Lillukka. You’ll get concrete tips on recycling, responsible consumption, the sharing economy, and housing in general.Come…