2025-11-10
Circular Valley Forum 2025: Cooperation across borders – now it's time to take action
Source: Jan Turek/Circular Valley
Europe is facing the question of how it can become more independent and crisis-proof - the Circular Valley Forum 2025 provides answers. Over 1,200 decision-makers are gathering in Wuppertal to discuss how cross-border and cross-sector cooperation can advance the circular economy.
On Friday, November 14, the big annual circular economy meeting will take place again. More than 1,200 decision-makers from business, politics, science, and society are expected to attend in Wuppertal. Under the motto “Action across Borders and Industries,” this year's Circular Valley Forum 2025 will focus more than ever on the importance of cooperation – because only together can Europe and its industries become more resilient and independent.
In the heart of Europe, a network is growing that transcends borders and closes cycles. The forum marks the beginning of another important chapter: the successful cooperation between North Rhine-Westphalia and Flanders is being extended to include the Netherlands and is made official. By doing so, the three regions are sending a strong message that Europe can still act effectively in times of geopolitical tension. “The circular economy is very much about securing our independence in Europe,” says Dr. Carsten Gerhardt, Chairman of the Circular Valley Foundation.
"In a time of geopolitical tensions, independence and resilience cannot be overestimated"
The circular economy is considered a key way of conserving materials, strengthening supply chains, and reducing dependence on imports. "In a time of geopolitical tensions, independence and resilience cannot be overestimated," says Dr Carsten Gerhardt. The forum demonstrates that the circular economy is a strategic issue for the future.
Leading figures from industry, SMEs and politics will take to the stage to discuss the obstacles and opportunities that arise along the value chains. The sessions demonstrate how cooperation enables innovation, covering everything from metals and chemicals to construction, digitalisation, and energy. International start-ups present new technologies that demonstrate how cycles can be closed in practice. The programme is complemented by confidential roundtable discussions that encourage the exchange of ideas on specific projects.
The future of a circular economy is taking shape
HA Schult's symbolic art installation, 'Hotel Europe', gives the forum a visual boost. His work at the entrance to the historic town hall reminds us that European cooperation is an attitude and a prerequisite for a sustainable future.
Dr. Carsten Gerhardt emphasizes, "Cooperation is the key to transforming to a circular economy. We bring the right partners together and create alliances that extend far beyond industry and national borders." The Circular Valley Forum 2025 is shaping the future of the circular economy in the greater Rhine-Ruhr region.
More information about the Circular Valley Forum is available on the website: circular-valley.org/forum2025
In the heart of Europe, a network is growing that transcends borders and closes cycles. The forum marks the beginning of another important chapter: the successful cooperation between North Rhine-Westphalia and Flanders is being extended to include the Netherlands and is made official. By doing so, the three regions are sending a strong message that Europe can still act effectively in times of geopolitical tension. “The circular economy is very much about securing our independence in Europe,” says Dr. Carsten Gerhardt, Chairman of the Circular Valley Foundation.
"In a time of geopolitical tensions, independence and resilience cannot be overestimated"
The circular economy is considered a key way of conserving materials, strengthening supply chains, and reducing dependence on imports. "In a time of geopolitical tensions, independence and resilience cannot be overestimated," says Dr Carsten Gerhardt. The forum demonstrates that the circular economy is a strategic issue for the future.
Leading figures from industry, SMEs and politics will take to the stage to discuss the obstacles and opportunities that arise along the value chains. The sessions demonstrate how cooperation enables innovation, covering everything from metals and chemicals to construction, digitalisation, and energy. International start-ups present new technologies that demonstrate how cycles can be closed in practice. The programme is complemented by confidential roundtable discussions that encourage the exchange of ideas on specific projects.
The future of a circular economy is taking shape
HA Schult's symbolic art installation, 'Hotel Europe', gives the forum a visual boost. His work at the entrance to the historic town hall reminds us that European cooperation is an attitude and a prerequisite for a sustainable future.
Dr. Carsten Gerhardt emphasizes, "Cooperation is the key to transforming to a circular economy. We bring the right partners together and create alliances that extend far beyond industry and national borders." The Circular Valley Forum 2025 is shaping the future of the circular economy in the greater Rhine-Ruhr region.
More information about the Circular Valley Forum is available on the website: circular-valley.org/forum2025
If you have any questions or interview requests, please contact us by e-mail at press@circular-valley.org
The image may be used free of charge for reporting purposes, provided you cite the source.
The image may be used free of charge for reporting purposes, provided you cite the source.
The non-profit Circular Valley Foundation brings together the relevant stakeholders. Across industries and technologies, companies, startups, academia, and policymakers are working together to develop solutions for the transformation to a true circular economy. Public relations, the world's first circular economy accelerator, and policy recommendations are the foundation's main areas of focus.
