Circular Economy in Logistics and Transport

The event “Energy Transition: Only with Circular Economy?” organized by the Zwickau logistics service provider WP Holding in collaboration with the Logistics Network Central Germany discussed a wide range of topics related to sustainability and circular economy in the transport and logistics sector on November 19, 2024, at the Zwickau Horch Museum.

(Zwickau) During the event, an assessment was made of the current state of the energy transition in logistics, how further developments could unfold, and how the challenges could be addressed. It was clearly emphasized that ecology and economy are by no means two opposing approaches. However, to reconcile both, a further, accelerated, and simplified expansion of networks and storage technologies is necessary. Dr. Franziska Mey from the Research Institute for Sustainability stressed that the social acceptance of the energy transition must always be taken into account.

Sascha Hähnke, Managing Director of Remondis Sustainable Services, criticized the current funding practices, stating that funding for alternative drives is “not a subsidy, but an investment in the future” and concluded his presentation with the clear statement, “alternative drives are indispensable!” Dr. Peter Michalowski from the Technical University of Braunschweig clarified that the lack of necessary raw materials in battery production makes a circular economy essential, but it is important to ensure that the recovered raw materials remain in the country and can thus be reintegrated into the cycle. Martin Neuhold from the consulting firm PwC lamented that many processes are designed linearly, resulting in products being manufactured as cost-effectively as possible, while recycling is not planned. This must be considered already in product design and manufacturing, requiring stronger collaboration among all stakeholders to recognize and utilize existing opportunities.

Dissatisfied with the State of the Energy Transition

During the concluding panel discussion, Professor Frank Atzler from the Technical University of Dresden expressed dissatisfaction with the state of the energy transition, particularly citing the lack of available electricity. Sascha Hähnke specifically criticized the slow pace of implementing necessary measures. However, there was consensus that the event title should not be framed with a question mark, but rather with an exclamation mark: “Energy Transition – only with Circular Economy!”

Photo: © WP Holding