Design Thinking Workshop - TZ Horb

Co-Creative design thinking workshops to transform plastics and machine industry towards circularity took place on September 30, 2024 organized by TZ Horb at Vogt Plastic GmbH, Rheinfelden (Baden), Germany.

The workshop began with an informative presentation that introduced participants to the company's operations and processes. The focus was on the recycling cycle of the Yellow Bag, from collection and sorting to the material processing stages. Special attention was given to explaining the difference between rigid regrinds and granulates produced from flexible plastics.

Following the presentation, an engaging discussion took place, where participants were encouraged to share their thoughts and questions on recycling and the circular economy. This exchange of diverse perspectives enriched the conversation, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the industry.

Participants were asked thought-provoking questions, such as:

• How would you rate the recycling process in Germany? What is going well, and what could be better?
• How could the process be improved to recycle more materials from the Yellow Bag?
• What do you understand by the concept of the circular economy?
• What innovations in recycling or waste management are you aware of, or do you think are promising?
• How could machines be developed to respond more flexibly to different types of plastic waste, especially from the Yellow Bag?
• How can the machinery industry, as part of Plan C, contribute to promoting climate-neutral and resource-efficient production processes?
• What role does the machinery industry play in reducing emissions within the circular economy, particularly in plastic recycling?
• What challenges does the machinery industry currently face in processing fully circular materials, and how could these be overcome?

One of the workshop’s highlights was the guided tour through the recycling facility. Participants were able to witness each stage of the recycling process, observing how waste from the Yellow Bag is transformed into rigid regrinds and flexible granulates. This offered a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the technology and methods involved in turning waste into valuable resources that can be reintegrated to new products. Vogt Technology bridges the gap between producers of durable plastic products and post-consumer waste, creating an efficient recycling process where material loss is minimized. Although recycled compounds may sometimes require specific adaptations in toolmaking and machine technology, these challenges are surmountable with the right expertise, allowing for the production of goods that meet the same standards as those made from virgin materials.

Even though Vogt Plastic is not formally integrated into Plan C, the company’s actions illustrate the critical role that innovative enterprises play in bringing Europe’s circular economy vision to life. Vogt Plastic proves that, with the right expertise and technologies, a resource-efficient future is not only achievable—it’s already here