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Raw Materials in Transition: How the Digital Circular Economy Is Redefining the Future of Resource Use

In a time of global resource scarcity, strict regulations, and increasing decarbonization pressure, the digital circular economy is becoming a key strategic asset. Metaloop demonstrates how modern platforms can connect secondary raw materials such as metals and plastics with precision and efficiency. The platform fosters market transparency, streamlines transactions between industry, recyclers, and disposal services, and turns secondary resources into a valuable commodity rather than mere byproducts.

Dynamic developments in global recycling markets show: secondary raw materials are now vital for industries like mobility, manufacturing, and energy. Meanwhile, the EU taxonomy, supply chain laws, and eco-design regulations present both challenges and opportunities for companies.

Metaloop’s digital solution acts as a marketplace ecosystem – linking supply and demand, reducing transport distances, cutting emissions, and integrating logistics, financing, and insurance services. The result: a more transparent and resilient raw material supply chain that benefits both the environment and the economy.

This is more than recycling – it's a driver of transformation.
Digital circular economy is shifting the future of resource use from linear to circular – building sustainability and competitiveness at once.

A warm thank you to Jan Pannenbäcker and Metaloop for this exciting and insightful contribution!

Scenarios for the steel scrap demand of the German steel industry

Germany’s steel industry is undergoing a major shift: blast furnaces are gradually being replaced by electric arc furnaces (EAFs), which rely heavily on scrap metal and save up to 55% in energy. A research team from the University of Applied Sciences Jena has analyzed in detail how demand for scrap will evolve – using scenario modeling and market data.

Key insight: every newly installed EAF module increases annual scrap import demand by approx. 550 tonnes, while exports decline – signaling growing international competition. Forecasts indicate that hundreds of new recycling facilities will be needed across Europe, creating thousands of jobs and generating billions in added value.

This study doesn’t just quantify future demand – it frames steel scrap as a key resource for circular steelmaking in Europe. At the same time, it raises critical questions about securing raw materials, safeguarding competitiveness, and reshaping infrastructure.

A heartfelt thank you to Maik Hartung, Frank Pothen and Carolin Hundt from the University of Applied Sciences Jena for this important and insightful perspective!