How can SMEs successfully enter the circular economy? Many are asking themselves this question on the road to climate neutrality by 2045 at the latest and in view of the overuse of natural resources. The transition from a linear economy to a genuine circular economy plays an important role here. Products, business models and processes must be organised in a sensibly circular way in order to transform Germany's economy sustainably and make it fit for the future.

acatech - National Academy of Science and Engineering and WWF Germany have developed a strategy game for a simple but effective introduction to the circular economy. ‘Make it circular! Get to know circular business models in a playful way’ offers SMEs the opportunity to align their own business model more closely with the circular economy in workshops using a set of cards and detailed accompanying material. The free strategy game is designed to be industry-independent and consists of 22 patterns for circular business models and a moderation guide for the workshops. 

The core module of the strategy game involves developing circular economy business models from the perspective of your own company. It deals with the role that companies can play in the circular economy, which product-service systems are relevant for their products and solutions and what support is required in terms of product design, digitalisation and partnerships. The game also supports the first steps towards implementation. 
Medium-sized companies can contribute to a sustainable economy through circular value creation processes. To this end, the entire value chain is geared towards product longevity, the consumption of primary raw materials is reduced and the proportion of secondary raw materials in products is increased through high-quality recycling and more efficient returnability. ‘Make it circular!’ provides food for thought on how new service models can be easily implemented and transferred to everyday business life.

Venue: cross-industry Lounge in hall  C3 (North)