Circular economy in the metal industry
Presentation at the meeting of the non-ferrous metals group of the Swiss Foundry Association GVS
Non-ferrous metals and recycling management
On September 12, the Foundry Association of Switzerland GVS invited to the meeting of the non-ferrous metals group. It is impossible to imagine modern life in the 21st century without non-ferrous metals - the metals are indispensable in the automotive industry, in construction or in electrical engineering. As guest speaker, Martin Räber (Managing Director of Eartheffect) explored the potentials of the circular economy for the metal industry together with the participants.
Economic and ecological potential of "waste
In contrast to the linear value chain, a product is not considered worthless at the end of its life cycle in a circular value chain.
At the meeting of the non-ferrous metals group of the Foundry Association, Martin Räber (Managing Director of Eartheffect) illustrated why closing loops has positive effects not only for the environment but also for companies with the "Value Hill". The aim is to keep a product or parts of it at the highest possible value-added level for as long as possible in order not to destroy its value.
In short, the circular economy is not only attractive for companies in the long term, but even more so - one day it will be the basis of their existence.
Interactive discussions about implementation possibilities
Afterwards, the participants interactively addressed the question of how their own industry can benefit from the circular economy. The lively discussions brought out some important points. Products would have to be made more durable and/or recyclable, digitalization would have to be advanced, and appropriate education would have to be made possible.
Raising awareness as a first step
Martin Räber from Eartheffect informed our members competently and entertainingly about the circular economy and its economic potential and gave concrete recommendations for action for companies. For us it was exciting to realize that KLW can mean much more than recycling. - Marcel Menet, Managing Director of the Foundry Association of Switzerland GVS
As always, it is easier said than done. In order to initiate a circular transformation, a culture of sustainability must be created within the company and employees at the grassroots level must also be sensitized and trained accordingly. Companies should be creative and try things out of the box. The creative potential of employees should not be underestimated when it comes to new solutions!
Foundry Association of Switzerland wants to make greater use of recycling potentials
The Foundry Association of Switzerland (GVS) is a community of interests of the Swiss foundries. This includes the iron, steel, light metal, non-ferrous metal and die casting foundries, as well as suppliers, patrons and individuals associated with the association. On its website, the Foundry Association emphasizes the potential of the circular economy, especially for the non-ferrous metal aluminum. The aim is to close the material cycles as far as possible.
