Leoben on the world stage: doctoral students fight against flood of waste!

Leoben on the world stage: doctoral students fight against flood of waste!

Leoben, Österreich - What do a doctoral exchange in China and the destination Zero Waste have in common? The answer is simple: you are all about progressive waste and resource management. Six committed doctoral students from the chair for waste recycling technology and waste management (AVAW) of the Montan University Leoben took part in the International Conference on Solid Waste 2025 in Dongguan in June 2025. There they presented their current research projects and actively contributed to the international exchange of knowledge in an area that is more in focus than ever.

The conference was not only an exciting platform for innovative strategies in the circular economy, but also addressed the global challenge of the growing waste quantities. Many cities are faced with the task of sustainably managing waste, whereby the model Zero Waste increasingly proves itself. Berlin , for example, pursues clear objectives with its waste management concept 2020-20-2030 20 percent by 2030 and an increase in recycling quota for mineral waste to 64 percent are just a few of the ambitious measures that should contribute to reducing ecological footprint.

valuable insights into international developments

After the conference, the doctoral students were able to visit a modern waste incineration plant in Shenzhen. This technical excursion offered you the opportunity to find out more about international developments in waste management and to exchange ideas with experts from all over the world. This impetus for exchange about innovative approaches shows how important international cooperation in waste management is, especially when you consider that over two billion tons of fixed settlement waste are produced worldwide. Forecasts indicate that this amount could increase to 3.8 billion tons by 2050 if no effective countermeasures are taken.

In the context of these challenges, the concept of the circular economy is shown as a key solution. The initiative New LIFE emphasizes that a functioning circulatory economy is not only reduced, but also Natural resources protects and saves energy. An example of this is the material recycling of old tires, which in Germany provides over 200,000 tons of secondary raw materials such as rubber granulate and rubber flour annually. These can then be used in high -quality products from different industries.

a way to more sustainability

The mission statement Zero Waste, which aims to reduce waste and the creation of ecological material cycles, is supported by such projects and initiatives. At a time when the current economic system is often linear - i.e. producing, using, throwing away - is perceived, it is encouraging that various actors all over the world take initiatives to close the circulation. With creative solutions and a respectful way of dealing with resources, we can make a significant contribution to climate protection together and make the course for a sustainable future.