Applications for the non-material SME award can be submitted until 31 January 2026.

The recycling award, for which people can both apply and nominate an ‘angel’ via the german IFAT website of the bvse Federal Association for Secondary Raw Materials and Waste Disposal, is being presented for the sixth time. It is aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises in the recycling, waste disposal and circular economy sectors, as well as technology providers and personalities from politics and industry. The bvse presents the award together with the group of companies ‘DIE GRÜNEN ENGEL – Aufbereitungszentrum Nürnberg’ as a distinction for innovation, sustainability and entrepreneurial courage. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on 6 May 2026 during the festive setting of the bvse trade fair evening at IFAT Munich. According to bvse, the award winners will also have the opportunity to showcase their award-winning solutions with their own film contribution.
 
According to the information provided, submissions can be made in three categories. The ‘Innovative Recycling Solutions’ category is aimed at recycling companies that strengthen the circular economy and protect the environment and resources with new processes, technologies or business models. The search is on for pioneering processing methods, new material cycles and ecologically effective solutions. The ‘Forward-looking Technical Solutions’ category is aimed at machine and plant manufacturers, technology providers and digitalisation and logistics service providers who improve or automate recycling processes. The focus is on intelligent sorting, control and sensor systems, digital optimisation tools and efficient plant technology. Personalities from industry or politics who have shaped recycling over many years can be honoured in the ‘Lifetime Achievement’ category. This category recognises outstanding lifetime achievements, long-standing commitment and visionary contributions to the circular economy.
 
According to the information provided, the jury members from the sector, industry and science evaluate the submitted entries according to their specific benefits and problem-solving potential, the further development of existing approaches, the degree of innovation and a clear unique selling point. In addition, the scalability of the solution, its economic viability and its already recognisable or foreseeable market success are to be taken into account in the decision.
 
Further informationen: www.ifat-bvse.de
 
Sources:

• Press release bvse (2.12.2025)
• Photo: © bvse / Die Grünen Engel