TH Köln and BAV Complete Pilot Project on Circular Value Creation from Residual Materials

The Cologne University of Applied Sciences (TH Köln) and the Bergisch Waste Management Association (BAV) have successfully completed the EU-funded pilot project called Bergische Rohstoffschmiede (2021-2023), paving the way for a circular economy in the Bergisches Rhineland region in Germany.

TH Köln and BAV have been actively engaged in research and development at the :metabolon teaching and research centre, focusing on innovative processes to further recycle secondary, residual and waste materials. The pilot project, led by Christian Wolf from TH Köln, aimed to practically implement a concept of circular value creation for residual materials.

One focus of the pilot project was the construction of a processing line for mineral construction waste, in particular for the recycling of fine fractions with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres. During the pilot project’s lifetime, TH Köln and BAV created a new technical centre for the recycling of plastics and mineral construction waste such as sand, gravel, natural stone or cement while joining forces with various companies and building strong networks to advance sustainable practices in the region. Additionally, two wooden model houses were built as part of the project, showcasing the use of resource-saving, renewable and circular building materials as well as space-saving design and construction methods.

You can find more information about the Bergische Rohstoffschmiede pilot project and its accomplishments (in German) here.

Contact:

Christian Wolf, Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering Science at TH Köln: christian.wolf@th-koeln.de