IFAT Munich x SZ — The importance of circularity for the future of Europe
IFAT Munich and the Süddeutsche Zeitung are joining forces to combine ecological innovation, economic responsibility, and security policy relevance. Find out everything you need to know about the collaboration here—and why the circular economy is a must.
Two partners, one topic: “Circularity is a must!”
The long-term partnership between IFAT Munich and Süddeutsche Zeitung revolves entirely around the topic of circularity. As the world's leading trade fair for environmental technologies, IFAT Munich contributes its technical expertise and valuable contacts. As one of Europe's leading media companies, SZ gives this topic the attention it deserves.
As part of the cooperation, several forums highlight the importance of the circular economy from different perspectives — from a security policy, economic, and business perspective. It becomes clear time and again that circularity is fundamental to the future of Europe. In other words: Circularity is a must!
The collaboration includes:
- IFAT Munich's presence at leading SZ events such as the SZ Nachhaltigkeitsgipfel (Sustainability Summit) and the SZ Wirtschaftsgipfel (Economic Summit)
- A joint content hub on sueddeutsche.de (launch: January 2026)
- The “Green Stage” at IFAT Munich 2026, curated by the SZ editorial team
Study by IFAT Munich: What the Germans think about circularity
For Germans, Germany's raw material security begins at the recycling center—as shown by the IFAT Circularity Monitor, a representative YouGov survey commissioned by IFAT Munich. 73% of Germans consider the circular economy to be important in terms of national (raw material) security, and more than half see it as a catalyst for new economic growth. At the same time, 83% say they still feel poorly or only adequately informed about this topic.
See the detailed results of the study here.
Circularity — A future topic with three dimensions
The circular economy is not a trend, but part of our security policy infrastructure.
- Exhibition Director IFAT Munich
Green Defense: How circularity protects boundaries
On November 18, 2025, IFAT Munich presented the session “Green Defense” at the SZ Economic Summit in Berlin—a discussion on the role of the circular economy as a security policy and economic factor. Two top speakers from the worlds of business and security policy attended.
The Circularity Content Hub – coming to sueddeutsche.de in January 2026
January 2026 will see the launch of the digital content hub from IFAT Munich and the Süddeutsche Zeitung newspaper, featuring exclusive articles, interviews, and insights on the circular economy, innovation, and sustainability.
Stay up to date on circularity
Every two weeks, the IFAT Munich LinkedIn newsletter explores key topics and events around the circular economy. Don't miss any updates and get the most important insights!