Axfoundation Through the Years – Milestones to Remember

It all started with a lightbulb moment – why should businesses be exempt from taking responsibility for societal issues? Back in 1992, Antonia Ax:son Johnson raised this question and started talking about the “good company” and the great potential of corporations as changing forces in society. This outlined the framework for what is to become Axfoundation, a “do tank” that innovates and accelerates practical solutions for a sustainable world. To recognize the 30-year anniversary of Axfoundation as an independent, non-profit organization, we shed light on the projects we remember, the moments that stuck with us, and the inspiring journey that lies ahead.

We want to be at the forefront of change. We want to challenge and translate good ideas into practical solutions. Relentlessly.

– Antonia Ax:son Johnson, Founder of Axfoundation

Axfoundation develops practical solutions related to the things we buy, the food we eat and the resources we use.

Progress Report 2023 – Explore the full story

How it all started – and a few highlights along the way

1993 – Axfoundation is born

Antonia Ax:son Johnson registers the Antonia Ax:son Johnson Foundation for Sustainable Development, the organization that is to become Axfoundation.

Early 1990s – Setting sustainability research in motion

By initiating support for scientific research on sustainable environmental development, the first seed of the organization is planted. One of the first projects is a life cycle analysis of an apple’s journey to Sweden.

2006 – From foundation to ”do tank”

Alexandra Mörner, daughter of Antonia Ax:son Johnson, becomes chairman and turns the organization into a “do tank” with a focus on developing practical solutions to concrete sustainability challenges.

Antonia Ax:son Johnson is the founder of Axfoundation.

A lifecycle analysis of an apple's journey to Sweden becomes one of the first projects.

Alexandra Mörner steers Axfoundation into a new direction, from foundation to "do tank".

2008 – Starts exploring a path towards sustainable fashion

Axfoundation’s sustainable fashion journey begins with the launch of the seminar series Fashion Talks, the Sustainable Fashion Academy and Sweden’s first textile recycling program.

2013 – Leads the way towards responsible antibiotic use

Axfoundation takes on the mission of encouraging the responsible use of antibiotics for food-producing animals. Read more →

2015 – Accelerates the integration process for foreign-born Swedes

The integration project Open the Door is launched, enabling 59 000 new and established Swedes to meet. Explore the project →

Axfoundation initiates Sweden's first textile recycling program.

Axfoundation starts addressing the antibiotic resistance threat in 2013.

Foreign-born Swedes are integrated in society via the "Open the Door"-project.

2017 – Gathers actors to develop a sustainable alternative to minced meat

A winding journey from pea to product results in the first mince from Swedish legumes. The product hits the market in 2020. Read more →

2017 – Improves the livelihoods for small-scale farmers in Pakistan

Axfoundation joins Axfood and Oxfam in a collaborating value chain program, resulting in a replicable formula for how to turn aid into trade. Continue reading →

2018 – Begins world-leading testing on perennial grains

Together with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Axfoundation starts testing the potential for perennial grains at Torsåker Farm, Axfoundation’s test and development center for the sustainable food systems of the future. Explore the project →

Pasta Bolognese made from Swedish minced legumes.

The project Sustainable Rice Production in Pakistan contributes to strengthened roles and rights for women.

A candidate to be the world's first perennial barley crop is cultivated at Torsåker Farm.

2020 – Embarks on a journey to end Swedish wool waste

Together with actors across the value chain, Axfoundation establishes The Swedish Wool Initiative, a cross-industry collaboration with a vision of contributing to zero waste of Swedish wool. Read more →

2022 – Launches center for future food to accelerate sustainable innovation

The gates are thrown open to Torsåker Farm, a test farm and practical center for the sustainable food systems of the future. Read more →

2024 – Continues to innovate for a sustainable world

With over 30 projects and 300 collaborating partners, Axfoundation continues to tackle sustainability challenges head on. Make sure to keep an eye on the projects Climate Education Tool, The Swedish Wool Initiative, The Feed of the Future for Fish, Pigs, Poultry and Laying Hens, and more.