The Circular Valley Convention 2026 successfully launched on Wednesday at the Areal Böhler in Düsseldorf. Over two days, around 2,000 representatives from politics, industry, science, and startups are coming together to discuss and present concrete solutions for a circular economy.

At the opening of the convention, Mona Neubaur, Deputy Minister-President and Minister of Economic Affairs of North Rhine-Westphalia, sent a political signal emphasizing the importance of the circular economy as an industrial and location strategy.

"In North Rhine-Westphalia, we know that the circular economy drives innovation, benefits the climate, and makes us less dependent on expensive raw material imports and vulnerable supply chains – this is more important than ever in light of the current crises in Iran and around the world," said the Minister. "Smart circular business models create new value, future-proof jobs, and strengthen our competitiveness and resilience. That’s why we are giving the circular economy in NRW an extra boost: with targeted support, strong networks, and the right conditions for investment."

Representatives from leading industrial companies also highlighted the growing strategic importance of circular value creation at the start of the convention. In a panel hosted by the co-organizers, representatives from BASF, Bayer, Evonik, Henkel, and Vorwerk discussed how companies are increasingly integrating circular economy principles into their business models and organizational structures, and how cross-industry collaboration is essential for success. "Collaboration is key. None of us can achieve this transformation on their own," said Dr. Timo Fleßner of Bayer.

Circular Economy Across the Entire Product Lifecycle

The convention covers the entire product lifecycle. Contributions from industry, science, and politics demonstrate how the circular economy begins with product design and extends through use, reuse, and repair to recycling and raw material recovery.

A key focus on the first day was on the so-called early R-strategies –Refuse, Rethink, Redesign, and Reduce. Experts from companies, research institutions, and consultancies discussed how products can be designed from the outset to ensure materials are used longer and better integrated into circular systems.

Questions of raw material security and resilient supply chains are also in focus. Presentations from science and industry show how the circular economy can help reduce dependence on primary raw materials and organize value creation more sustainably.

Startups Present Innovations at Demo Day

A highlight of the first day is the Demo Day of the Circular Economy Accelerator by Circular Valley. International startups from several continents present their solutions – ranging from new materials and digital traceability to innovative recycling processes.

In parallel with the stage program, over 100 companies, research institutions, and startups in the expo area showcase concrete technologies and business models for the circular economy. The Circular Valley Convention thus combines a specialist conference, trade fair, and networking platform, bringing together stakeholders from various industries.

Outlook for the Second Day

On Thursday, further key levers of the circular economy will take center stage – including recycling technologies, digital solutions for circular value creation, and the role of energy and artificial intelligence. Expected are contributions from Federal Environment Minister Carsten Schneider and NRW Environment Minister Oliver Krischer.