Anja Siegesmund, President of the BDE Federal Association of the German Waste, Water and Circular Economy, has sharply criticised the recent delays in the adoption of the „National Circular Economy Strategy“ (NKWS) by the German government. She is calling for more speed and commitment in its implementation.
Further delays in departmental consultations in the Federal Cabinet are unacceptable, said the association's head. „It is high time that the National Circular Economy Strategy enters the interministerial coordination phase and then is adopted by the Federal Cabinet. The preparations and participations were intensive and rich in content, now the NKWS must finally come.“
The National Circular Economy Strategy agreed in the coalition agreement is now available in draft form after more than two years of preparation, but is currently not making any progress in the cabinet. The NKWS is to - as a key framework strategy within the European Green Deal - define reliable rules for the transformation of economic activity into a circular economy for as many sectors and products as possible. The aim is to, closing more and more material cycles, from product design to utilisation and recycling, in order to save resources, reduce Germany's dependence on imports and protect the climate. The National Circular Economy Strategy is an „industrial policy issue“ in particular.
„The question of the supply of raw materials is existential for our business location. The circular economy can and will make a significant contribution here, but it needs a smart regulatory framework that combines ecology and economy. This is the only way to create investment security for the economy - and thus innovative strength.“
Anja Siegesmund, BDE President
The BDE President drew attention to the fact that the NKWS itself is only is the first step towards establishing a comprehensive circular approach in Germany. Implementation in the form of concrete, clear rules for a successful and sustainable economy will then follow. „A consistent circular economy creates more added value, new jobs, secures the supply of raw materials and protects the climate,“ said Siegesmund. „We need to drive this forward now.“
Source: BDE
