EMPACK asks Rahel Ostgen, Co-Managing Director, SWISS RECYCLE, 5 questions

1.What fascinates you most about the circular economy and recycling?
The circular economy requires a holistic systems approach: raw materials should not simply be consumed in a linear fashion, but kept in circulation as optimally as possible. Recycling is a central component of the circular economy – material cycles are closed and valuable resources are saved.
I think it is particularly important that we only make progress on this issue by working together. Only when the entire value chain works together – from manufacturers to retailers, consumers, local authorities and waste disposal companies – can we close the loop.

2. In your opinion, how has awareness and commitment to recycling and sustainable material cycles changed in recent years?
Many people already take recycling for granted, and Swiss recycling systems make a significant contribution to resource conservation and environmental benefits. There is also a growing awareness that the circular economy begins with design and that a circular future requires interaction with other RE strategies such as reduction, reuse and repair.

3. With its main theme of ‘The future of packaging’, EMPACK is focusing on forward-looking developments – what role will recycling play in the future of packaging and sustainable systems?
Recycling is a central part of the circular economy. In view of global challenges such as resource scarcity, rising raw material prices and increasing environmental pollution, the value of recycling as a reliable and sustainable source of raw materials is becoming increasingly important.
At the same time, we need the courage and openness to embrace new solutions and a common understanding that resource conservation does not begin with waste, but with product design, consumption and reuse. Swiss Recycle will continue to be a committed driver of this change in the future – together with its members and partners.

4. In an increasingly digital world: How important are personal encounters and direct exchange with partners from industry, politics and society to you?
Exchange is very important – a closed cycle is only possible if all stakeholders work together. Digitalisation makes many things easier, but trust, cooperation and joint solutions arise from personal dialogue. Direct exchange is crucial, especially in the circular economy, where many players have to work together across industry and interest boundaries.
Swiss Recycle works with partners across the entire value chain to advance the circular economy in Switzerland by keeping packaging and products in circulation as much as possible.

5. How do you assess the importance of EMPACK as a platform for dialogue between the packaging industry and other players in the circular economy?
Platforms that bring together players working on the future of sustainable circularity for packaging are very important. They create space for exchange, inspiration and concrete cooperation.