Michael Brunn

The contamination of surface waters, groundwater and wastewater with microplastics, micropollutantsand other organic trace substances is one of the greatest challenges currently facing water andenvironmental protection. These substances occur predominantly in very low concentrations below 1μg/L, but are often characterised by high persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicological relevance.

The project focuses on producing recycled nylon and further material streams that can be used for packaging and agricultural films, automotive components, and large-format parts manufactured via additive manufacturing.

Within the study, CETMA (Italy) and Gjenkraft AS (Norway) collaborated with Cormatex (Italy) and ÉireComposites (Ireland). Glass fibres recovered using Gjenkraft's thermal recycling process were converted into a nonwoven mat by Cormatex and then evaluated for use in composite manufacturing.

The project also reflects forthcoming regulatory requirements in the European Union. Under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), minimum recycled content targets are expected to apply to certain packaging types, including contact-sensitive applications. Against this background, the partners examined how PCR high-density polyethylene (PCR HDPE) performs under conditions relevant to cosmetic and personal care use.

This initiative, developed since 2024, serves as a technical resource to complement the organization's existing advocacy and business development functions within the global recycling sector.

The Future is Neutral and Pollini Group plan to develop a national network in Italy in cooperation with dismantling centres. The network is intended to serve automotive manufacturers operating in Italy and support the further industrialisation of ELV processing. The partners aim to strengthen the sector's preparedness for upcoming European requirements related to end-of-life vehicles.

The authors place their proposals in the context of geopolitical tensions and ongoing supply risks for fossil resources. At the same time, they describe the current economic crisis in the European chemical industry as a structural challenge linked to the fossil-based business model. In their view, lower electricity prices may support competitiveness, but they do not address the fundamental issue of long-term feedstock security.

Dust and carryback from belt conveyor discharge points are an ongoing problem for bulk handling operations. Efficient discharge at a transfer point requires a holistic approach with several components working in tandem. This approach aims to extend equipment life, improve safety, and address the root causes of inefficiency and downtime that reduce production and raise the cost of operation.

Building C is the final phase of the new main hospital building under the OYS2030 development programme. The project aims to consolidate outpatient specialist care and teaching functions within one facility and is planned to support shared use of space and efficient logistics. The building will include specialist outpatient clinics and day hospital activities, pathology laboratories, teaching and training facilities, and a teaching-focused social and health centre.

The revised templates are intended to help shipowners meet documentation requirements under both the EU Ship Recycling Regulation and the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships with one set of certificates.