Circular Economy

Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences is a partner in the large-scale CircEcon project, which is establishing a research facility—unique in Europe—for a climate-neutral circular economy at the Schwarze Pumpe Industrial Park. The HSZG’s contribution lies in the development of practical technologies for automated disassembly, AI-supported sorting, and the thermal conversion of residual materials. In doing so, HSZG is not only strengthening the scientific foundation but also driving regional structural change: from linear production to closed-loop systems that conserve resources and make Lausitz a model for sustainable industry.

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The Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences leads the LaNDER³ research project, which processes regional biomass into innovative natural-fiber composites—from fiber extraction to recycling. Together with industry partners, the HSZG is developing sustainable materials for mobility, construction, and filtration technology. In doing so, it strengthens the region’s competitiveness and demonstrates how the circular economy works in practice.

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Lausitz, home to the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, is making an application to become Europe’s first Net Zero Valley —a model region for climate-neutral technologies, sustainable production, and international industrial transfer.

The HSZG is involved as a scientific partner. It contributes its expertise in energy, the environment, and sustainability and participates in strategic processes and workshops aimed at developing the Valley. Through its application-oriented research, it supports the transition toward a circular economy and regional resilience.

More about the Lausitz Net Zero Valley