Material flows and reverse logistics

Logistical tasks in the Circular Economy are significantly more complex than in classic, forward-oriented logistics. Often, the occurrence and quality of material flows are difficult to predict due to various factors. At the same time, better recycling technologies offer the potential for manufacturers to broaden their sourcing base, provided that appropriate volumes can be made available. This is where Fraunhofer CCPE's research and services come in.

We analyze material flows regarding their temporal and spatial occurrence to assess recycling potentials on this basis. The use of specialized recycling technology is only applicable where sufficient quantities of input material can be tapped economically. The targeted design of logistics from the collection to the delivery of secondary raw materials can provide support here.

The introduction of take-back systems for products enables manufacturers to tap material flows ideally suited to their own production processes, thus reducing dependence on suppliers on the one hand and enabling high-quality recycling on the other. However, the design of take-back systems requires the consideration of numerous economic, organizational and technical aspects. Each system has to be designed and implemented specifically for an application. Research results from Fraunhofer CCPE can help companies to implement appropriate systems for their own products.