Circular economy in focus: Steinmeier's vision for a sustainable future!

Circular economy in focus: Steinmeier's vision for a sustainable future!

On June 20, 2025, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier emphasized the importance of the circular economy at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka. In his speech, he emphasized the wise use of resources, which not only benefits the planet but also future generations. Germany is actively involved in this global ideas workshop on the topic of circular economy, which aims to present innovative solutions in various areas.

Steinmeier pointed out that the goal of the circular economy is to close material and product cycles in order to use raw materials efficiently and in the long term. This is in contrast to the linear economy, where products are mined, consumed and ultimately thrown away, leading to resource depletion and environmental impact. The circular economy, on the other hand, reduces the consumption of primary raw materials and reduces waste.

Innovations and changes in perspective

At the expo, visitors have the opportunity to find out about innovative approaches to green architecture and intelligent energy distribution in various themed pavilions. Steinmeier called for a change of perspective in order to learn from each other – across borders and generations. This is supported by the comparative approaches from different countries, including the Japanese pavilion, which deals with the utilization of waste by microorganisms.

The potential of algae is also discussed here. These microalgae could potentially play a key role in future nutrition, producing 36 times more protein than soybeans, 14 times more oil than sunflowers, and also sequestering 14 times more CO2 than a cedar tree. Such innovative approaches are part of the comprehensive plan to promote the circular economy, which also integrates ecological considerations into product development to minimize resource consumption.

Role of consumers and government measures

A central aspect of the circular economy is the active role of consumers, who can contribute to reducing waste through sustainable consumption and longer use of products. This is supported by various government measures that promote cooperation with business and help advance environmentally friendly technologies. Since March 2021, only devices that can be repaired must be sold and manufacturers are obliged to provide spare parts and repair instructions.

The circular economy has been an issue in Switzerland since the 1980s. The federal government has taken various measures to support initiatives and recycled over 12 million tonnes of 17.5 million tonnes of dismantling materials in 2018. In this respect, Switzerland's commitment is also a great role model for other countries that want to follow similar paths. The circular economy market is growing faster than the global market and is increasingly seen as part of a resource-efficient economy.

The measures and strategies are not only at the state level, but are also supported by various actors in the municipalities and cantons. This collective effort is critical to addressing environmental hotspots and promoting long-term change that brings both environmental and economic benefits.