At the end of October 2024, the newly founded 9th government commission of the Lower Saxony state government began its work on the topic of the circular economy.
One of the main tasks of the approximately 20 commission members from business, trade unions, environmental organisations, municipal umbrella organisations, science and administration is to develop favourable framework conditions for policy in the state of Lower Saxony for the further development and expansion of the circular economy.
Prof Hans-Josef Endres is one of the members and also head of the ‘Circular Product Design’ working group, one of four working groups that began its work at the end of April. Its focus is on plastics, the circularity of which Endres has been committed to for several decades.
In the meantime, the topic of the circular economy has also reached large parts of society and intergenerational responsibility is increasingly demanding political and economic action. ‘This can only work together with science and environmental organisations,’ Endres is certain, ‘and there is no time to put it off until the day after tomorrow.’
It is therefore all the more pleasing that, on the initiative of Lower Saxony's Environment Minister, Christian Meyer, there is now a commission in Lower Saxony which, familiar with the regional conditions, is driving the issue forward.
‘We only have this one earth and we must utilise its riches and raw materials sustainably for future generations,’ warned Meyer in his opening speech. "The circular economy stands for a forward-looking approach that combines ecological responsibility and economic action. The longevity of products, economical and circular reuse of raw materials, sustainable consumption and innovative reuse of products offer great opportunities for Lower Saxony as a business location. In view of the climate crisis and dwindling raw materials, we need to fundamentally change the way we produce and consume. By utilising resources efficiently, reducing waste and emissions and using secondary raw materials, we can not only make an important contribution to climate protection, but also increase the resilience of our supply chains and secure the supply of raw materials in the long term. There are already numerous companies in Lower Saxony that are leading the way here and developing innovative solutions. Our goal is to support these companies and consistently expand the circular economy in all areas. That is why the 9th Government Commission is dedicated to this important topic." In addition to the ‘Circular Product Design’ working group, three other working groups have been set up for this purpose:
- Circular Society: Promoting sustainable consumption and the responsible use of products
- Extraction and use of secondary raw materials: Utilisation of recycled materials in the construction industry and other sectors
- Chemicals hazardous to the environment and health: Ensuring the sustainable handling of hazardous substances
Over the next three years, the 9th Government Commission will address the most specific issues and problems in Lower Saxony in the four subject areas mentioned above and develop solutions and proposals for sustainable economic activity and consumption.
