“Recyclability can no longer be an added bonus. It's a must!”
The recyclability of products manufactured here can therefore no longer be just an added bonus. It's a must! This is a message that seems to be gradually getting through to German companies, even if it is taking a bit too long in some cases. Germany is actually in an ideal position to become a leading provider in a new market with new circular business models, products and services. If we get it right, “Made in Germany” could be synonymous with sustainable quality in the future. Extended Producer Responsibility would then not be an onerous burden; it could even present a new opportunity for our country.
In order for this transformation to succeed, we have to set a proper course now! This is precisely where the Circular Economy Standardization Roadmap comes in, which was published at the beginning of the year – with significant contributions from VDE (DKE) – and submitted to the Federal Ministry for the Environment. In Germany, we have plenty of technological expertise and innovative strength. What we are lacking at the European level, however, are the appropriate “ground rules”.
You can read about this topic and much more in the current issue of VDE dialog. I hope you find it an interesting and stimulating read.
Yours truly,
Burkhard Holder, Director, Innovations and Trends, VDE
Senator, Senate of Economy, Germany
