According to the BDE, around 160 experts from politics, business and science attended the conference.

The event was organised by the associations AVU Allianz Verpackung und Umwelt, BDE Bundesverband der Deutschen Entsorgungs-, Wasser- und Kreislaufwirtschaft and bvse Bundesverband Sekundärrohstoffe und Entsorgung e. V. under the patronage of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Protection, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUKN), focused on new legal requirements, technical progress and the role of artificial intelligence, as well as reliable, market-oriented guidelines for successful recycling, according to a statement from the BDE. Carsten Träger, Member of the German Parliament and Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUKN), emphasised the importance of reliable regulatory guidelines for the success of the circular economy in Germany: "A functioning circular economy requires clear and reliable framework conditions. Only when there is planning security can companies invest, innovations be driven forward and high-quality recycling processes be created. With the current developments in packaging law, we are creating the necessary conditions for this".
 
Artificial intelligence was highlighted as an important driver of innovation. According to experts, its benefits are particularly evident when it is meaningfully integrated into existing processes. A presentation also addressed how AI is driving the transformation of the economy and society. Study results were also presented on the design of extended producer responsibility (EPR) systems for packaging. According to these results, successful EPR systems require, above all, full cost coverage, clear responsibilities and effective supervision.
 
According to the BDE, the organisers' conclusion is that progress in digitalisation and recycling is not possible without a stable political framework. The industry is therefore calling for practical, consistent and market-oriented laws that combine innovation and economic requirements. The organisers emphasised that the successful further development of the circular economy will only succeed if regulatory requirements, economic requirements and innovations are consistently brought together.
 
Sources:

• BDE press release (9.12.2025)
• Photo: AI-generated image / Canva