Fraunhofer UMSICHT delivers keynote speech at Circular Valley Convention

Following its successful launch in 2025, the Circular Valley Convention will enter its second round in 2026. It covers all aspects of the industrial circular economy and brings together decision-makers from business, research, politics and society.

The convention includes conferences, an expo and events, and promotes exchange and innovation in the circular economy. 

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Matthias Franke, Head of the Fraunhofer UMSICHT Institute in Sulzbach-Rosenberg, will deliver a keynote speech during the session »Recycling of ressources«.  The title of his lecture is: »Advanced recycling technologies and beyond - current status and perspektives«.

Dr. Alexander Hofmann (department manager Advanced Carbon Conversion Technologies) will also give a lecture entitled: »Post-treatment of aromatic-rich pyrolysis oils from WEEE and mixed plastic waste«. 

Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Circular Plastics Economy

Fraunhofer UMSICHT is part of the Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence Circular Plastics Economy – Fraunhofer CCPE for short. This multi-stakeholder approach enables the transition from a linear to a circular economy. Fraunhofer CCPE brings together the expertise and infrastructure of a total of six Fraunhofer Institutes. Working together, they develop systemic, technical and social innovations that take into account the entire life cycle of plastic products.

Fraunhofer CCPE will be present again in 2026 with conference contributions and a stand, showcasing:

• Circular reusable transport box: Sustainable solution for food shipping, made from monomaterial and with strict cold chain requirements.
• Child seat demonstrator: Modular, repairable prototype made from bioplastics, combining circular design and a monomaterial approach.
• Recycling cascade: Combination of three technologies for producing high-quality plastic recyclates from materials that are difficult to recycle.

The Circular Valley Convention is organised by Messe Düsseldorf in cooperation with the Circular Valley Foundation and with scientific support from Fraunhofer UMSICHT.

Lecture title

Time: 14:30-14:45