Note: Since 01.01.2024, the current funding topic 8 (Recycling and efficient use of large and environmentally relevant material flows) combines the two previous funding topics 8 (Recycling and efficient use of environmentally critical metals and mineral residues) and 9 (Reduction of emissions of reactive nitrogen compounds into environmental compartments).
Around half of global greenhouse gas emissions and more than 90% of biodiversity loss and water scarcity are caused by the extraction of raw materials and the production and processing of materials, fuels and food. The global demand for raw materials is currently increasing rapidly – also due to technological trends such as digitalization and miniaturization as well as important future fields such as the energy and transport transition. As a result, the elements and substances in products (e.g. in composite materials) are becoming increasingly diverse, which makes them more difficult to recover and reuse.
One reason for the waste of valuable resources is the currently prevailing linear economic system (take, make, waste), which still pays too little attention to circular approaches. The efficient use and recycling (circular economy) of large and environmentally relevant primary and secondary raw material flows, e.g. in the chemical industry, the agricultural and food industry or in the building materials sector, is essential for a sustainable economy. The circular economy encompasses the entire life cycle of a product, from design, efficient production and the use phase through to the end of use and the recovery of recyclable materials.
One hundred percent circularity is not possible due to losses, impurities and contaminants, and rebound effects weaken efficiency gains. Technical innovations alone are not sufficient for an effective transformation towards a circular economy and society. In addition to technological innovations, economic and social innovations are also required. The transformation of the linear economy must be flanked by socio-cultural change. Conflicting goals and diverging interests must also be recognized and practical solutions for a circular economy (e.g. extended use, sharing models, secondary use of materials, repair of products) must be anchored in society.
Eligible projects are characterized by high practical relevance and effectiveness after the end of the project.
Eligible applicants include, but are not limited to:
Project examples from this funding topic:
In addition to project funding, the DBU also awards doctoral scholarships to promote young scientists and fellowships for university graduates from Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).