Sekundärrohstoffe

Sekundärrohstoffe, also known as secondary raw materials, are materials that have been recovered from waste or used products and are then reprocessed for reuse in manufacturing. This contrasts with primary raw materials, which are extracted directly from nature, such as mining ores or harvesting timber. The concept of secondary raw materials is a cornerstone of the circular economy, aiming to reduce the need for virgin resource extraction and minimize waste generation.

The generation of secondary raw materials involves various processes, including collection, sorting, dismantling, and reprocessing. For example, used plastics are collected, sorted by type, cleaned, and then melted down to be molded into new products. Similarly, metals from discarded electronics are smelted and refined, while paper is pulped and rewoven into new paper products. Glass is crushed and melted, and construction and demolition waste can be processed into aggregates for new building projects.

The economic and environmental benefits of utilizing secondary raw materials are significant. They help conserve natural resources, reduce energy consumption associated with primary extraction and processing, and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the secondary raw materials market can create new economic opportunities and jobs. However, challenges exist, including ensuring consistent quality and supply, developing efficient and cost-effective recycling technologies, and overcoming consumer and industry resistance to products made from recycled content.