Saxony wants to save raw materials: Promoting the circular economy

Saxony wants to support the transition to a resource-conserving circular economy with a funding program. Around 89 million euros from EU and state funds have been earmarked for this up to and including 2027, announced Environment Minister Wolfram Günther (Greens) on Tuesday after the cabinet meeting in Dresden. The funding is intended for companies, public waste management authorities, municipalities, special-purpose associations as well as associations, clubs and non-profit organizations.

"We consume more raw materials than our earth produces," warned the minister. The linear economy must become a circular economy. This requires appropriate instruments. "The economy of the future will work in cycles. We need to move away from overexploitation of nature and mountains of waste towards closed material cycles and reuse." The circular economy protects the environment and climate, but also pays off economically - because new raw materials no longer have to be procured at high cost.

The funding rates range between ten and 70 percent, depending on the object, region and applicant. Applications can be submitted via the funding portal of the Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB). Among other things, investments in production processes or products to reduce waste and save raw materials can benefit from grants. This also includes the use of recycled material as a raw material for new products or the digitalization of processes. The funding is also aimed at the recovery of biological waste, the recycling of waste from households, trade and industry and the recovery of phosphorus from sewage sludge.