University education and research activities have played an important role in the development of waste management in Germany. At German Universities, there is extensive specialist knowledge with practical experience that can be transferred worldwide to avoid wrong decisions and accelerate the implementation of adapted solutions. The German waste management industry can benefit from this. In many countries, hardly any modern waste management is offered as a course of study at universities and colleges. As a result, there is a lack of specialists for long-term and sustainable decisions and structures. International cooperation in education and research is one of the main activities of our professorship, thus contributing to sustainable waste management.
Circular Economy means the establishment of the legal, organisational, technical and financial systems for the environmentally sound recycling and disposal of waste from industry, commerce and residential areas. The systems must be interlinked and adaptable. The main elements of sustainable waste management include appropriate local laws, regulation of finances and responsibilities and strengthening of the municipal and private sectors.
Pilot projects with adapted technical solutions, the strengthening of public relations work and the introduction of separate collection require time and constant improvement and adaptation. The aim is to close loops and avoid material and energy losses.