2024

»Reducing the diversity of materials at the design stage, developing innovative recycling processes to recover fibres from blended fabrics, promoting fibre-to-fibre recycling, collecting and pre-sorting used textiles using a digital code, and much more. Taken together, these steps represent a transparent, regional textile value chain. What more could you ask for in a circular economy?«

»With this chair, Thonet has made history. A chair that is archetypical of design classics that has found its place worldwide – a chair, as an iconic example of long-lasting products that will still be purchased in 100 years. Its design language, its history, and its sustainable production are being honored with this special commendation. A chair that makes returning developments of new products, which in turn generate CO2 footprints, unnecessary. A timelessly sustainable chair.«

»The concept that underpins the environmental educational game ‘Entopolis’ is ultimately convincing thanks to its well thought-out approach to the highly relevant topic of insect biodiversity. It is characterized by both ecological and creative innovation, and targets a broad audience. The jury was particularly impressed by the playful yet coherent and accessible way in which knowledge is conveyed.«

»This project addresses an issue that is largely invisible in mainstream German society. Plant-based synthetic hair is a plastic-free and reusable alternative to current solutions that also addresses the health considerations of black people. What’s more, it is in keeping with the idea of a holistic circular economy.«

»Power charging is a hot topic, but ‘ONOX’ takes a different approach. To charge quickly you need a high connected load, which is rarely available in rural areas. Today, 40% of agricultural enterprises have their own PV systems, which is where the ‘ONOX’ electric tractor comes into play. The battery blocks charge slowly, helping to protect the battery, the power grid and farmers’ wallets. Once charged, they are quick and easy to exchange.«

»With its innovative ‘PIGMENTURA’ dyeing process, CHT Germany GmbH has developed a new process design that makes a relevant contribution to reducing the environmental impact of textile dyeing. The savings in energy and water consumption are remarkable and the process meets demanding standards for the use of chemicals.«

»The wheel may not have been reinvented by Schwalbe, but the bicycle tire has. The 'Green Marathon' model is the first bicycle tire with a closed material loop: it is made from used tires from Schwalbe's recycling system, recycled industrial carbon black, and fair-trade natural rubber. The steel used for the bead core contains 90% recycled material. Schwalbe achieves a 41% reduction in CO2 equivalents compared to the previous model. Very important for a product bearing the name 'Marathon': there is no compromise in terms of mileage, durability, or performance. From the jury’s perspective, this is an outstanding innovation that provides all cyclists with a genuine ecological alternative and contributes to sustainable consumer behavior.«

»Sleep 'til Infinna™ is an effective demonstration of holistic circularity in action. With a high use of 99% post-consumer recycled textiles, a consistent mono-material approach and a focus on longevity, this is an inspiring example of future-proof circular design.«

»Soft Spot addresses one of the greatest industrial challenges facing the global upholstery industry, namely that of finding an environmentally friendly alternative to polyurethane-based foams. This student project is an outstanding example of a future path in which upholstered furniture made from natural materials is designed from the outset to be recyclable – with no compromises in terms of design, aesthetics, ergonomics or seating comfort!«

»Quick, hygienic and versatile – paper towels have many useful applications. However, they have to be wet-strengthened with chemical additives, meaning that it’s not possible to recycle them along with normal paper. This smart solution, which makes use of a separate cycle, is a worthwhile service with high savings potential. A clean affair!«