As part of the 21st Global Conference on Sustainable Manufacturing (10-12 September 2025 in Bologna, Italy), Katharina Rohde from the DMB presented the paper "Unveiling Barriers to Recycling with a Focus on Design: An Ishikawa Diagram-Based Approach with Industrial Application" .
The results make it clear that the efficiency of recycling is less dependent on a large number of detailed design rules than is often assumed in the literature. The choice of materials, the avoidance of bonded structures and the minimisation of coatings are key factors for high recyclability. The study thus contributes to a differentiated view of "design for recycling" and shows that even a few, but targeted principles can make a significant contribution to recyclability.
The presentation also provided an opportunity to discuss the project results with experts from science and industry at the conference. Overall, the GCSM was characterised by an intensive international exchange on sustainable production and recycling concepts, to which Digi4Circular was able to contribute valuable input.
