Impressions from the Circular Valley Convention 2026
The Circular Valley Convention 2026 brought together stakeholders from established companies, start-ups, research, and politics to discuss current developments and challenges in the circular economy. In addition to inspiring keynote speeches – such as the talk by Prof. Dr. Michael Braungart on “Circular Economy – Successes, Opportunities and Challenges”—and panel discussions, the convention primarily offered a valuable platform for exchange and networking. We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank everyone for the many open and inspiring conversations.
Key topics of the Circular Valley Convention 2026:
Cooperation & Knowledge Exchange:
A central theme of the event was the importance of cooperation along the entire value chain. A circular economy can only function if companies, research institutions, start-ups, and political actors work together on solutions. Events such as the Circular Valley Convention make an important contribution by fostering exchange and enabling new partnerships.
Digitalization & AI:
Another important aspect is the role of digital technologies. Topics such as digital product passports, material tracking, and data-based transparency across product life cycles were repeatedly highlighted during the event and described as the “hottest and most interesting topic and solution.”
Design:
Another key theme of the event was the role of product design in enabling a functioning circular economy. It was repeatedly emphasized that circularity begins in the design phase, as a large share of a product’s environmental impacts is determined at this stage. Accordingly, it was highlighted that circular principles must be considered early in the development process – for example through durable and repairable designs, modular construction, and materials that can be easily separated and recycled. Several companies presented concrete approaches and products that have already been developed according to these principles.
The topics discussed reflect key focal areas of our research at the Sustainable Technologies Laboratory. We look forward to continuing to work with partners from research and practice to develop concrete solutions for a circular economy – both now and in the future.
