Discovering new circular value chains

Raw materials are not infinite. So why not make use of what is already available locally? In theMünsterlandregion, agriculture, forestry, food processing and other sectors generate biogenic raw materials and residues which, to date, have either not been utilised at all or have been used only to a limited extent to create added value. The economic potential of the bioeconomy is often not fully exploited. Yet what is currently waste for one company may be a valuable raw material for another.

Through the ‘Circular Bioeconomy Münsterland’ project, we (FH Münster and Münsterland e.V.) highlight this potential at a regional level: to this end, we identify and analyse the raw and residual materials generated in the Münsterland region and demonstrate how regional and circular value chains can be created from them. Using the results, we bring together companies along these new value chains and assess these chains from an economic perspective. This creates new regional value and an important data foundation. As a result, companies gain a sound basis for decision-making regarding potential investments and new regional collaborations.

Biogenic raw and residual materials are valuable resources. Whether as food, animal feed, for new bio-based products or for energy generation: there are various ways to reuse them. However, not every use generates the same added value. The aim is therefore to utilise raw and residual materials for various purposes for as long as possible before they are used for energy generation. This allows their economic potential to be maximised.