Save the date & interest

Further information on the scientific conference and workshops with practical applications.

Five years after the flood disaster in July 2021, it is time for a critical review of disaster research in German-speaking countries: What insights have been gained from the scientific analysis of the flood, and what questions remain unanswered? Which regions and topics have been well researched, and which have been neglected? How can the (ecological, social, and institutional) transformations accelerated by the flood be recorded and sustainably shaped in certain regions? And what role does disaster research play in a time of multiple crises?

We invite you to submit proposals for contributions in the following areas, particularly on the following topics:

• Taking stock – research successes, blind spots, and long-term studies
• Reconstruction and transformation – “Build Back Better & Greener”?
• Multi-crises: Research in the age of overlapping disasters

Please feel free to contact us. Together with 12 other co-organizers, we are putting together an interesting program.

Der Beitrag Conference 2026: 5 years after the flood erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.

This was also the case in the accompanying process with the Polytechnic University of Valencia. The research collaboration entered its next phase with the help of the NATURGY Foundation. We would particularly like to thank Prof. Miguel Ángel Artacho Ramírez, Director of the PRINS Institute. The translation of the joint research work required a technically easy-to-read translation into Spanish, which was financed by NATURGY. The publication can be downloaded free of charge and the colloquium is available in full online.

v.l.v.r.: Luis Palomino, ASEGRE; Eveline Lemke; María Eugenia Coronado, Natury; Vicente Martínez Mus, Comunitat Valencia; Débora Domingo-Calabuig, UPV; Miguel Àngel Artacho Ramírez, UPV; Eugenio Cámara, EMTRE; Manel Calvo Díaz, Naturgy

The colloquium held on December 11, 2025, in Valencia provided an opportunity to share important findings directly with Vicente Martínez Mus, Deputy Vice President and Head of Economic and Social Recovery in Valencia, as well as Infrastructure and Regional Planning. Direct dialogue in a trusting environment makes it much easier to arrive at findings that can also be implemented. Also present were Eugenio Cámara, Technical Director of EMTRE, and Luis Palomino, Secretary General of the Association of Hazardous Waste Disposal Companies in Spain, representing municipal waste disposal companies. They all want to use the insights gained for the next flood and incorporate them into all preparations and planning.

Since my last visit to Spain, many steps have been taken to implement the circular economy. Spain is also focusing on introducing the circular economy, and the starting point was more difficult than in Germany. However, this does not yet apply to issues of urban development, space for water, or water quality even after the 2024 floods; there is still plenty to discuss here. Visually, there is no longer any flood debris to be seen, roads and paths have been largely cleaned up, and access routes have been established. Waste disposal fees for all types of waste have also been introduced. Much of the debris and waste in Valencia has been processed and sent to approved landfills. Even though the waste is out of sight, it is still there, e.g., in temporary storage facilities that are not equipped as landfills. I was also able to address the importance of developing state-of-the-art landfills and that waste incineration is also an option for the safe destruction of hazardous waste. It is clear that these developments also need to be compared with the conclusions reached in Germany on the circular economy. Further research is to be carried out on this together.

International appeal as far as India:

We would also like to extend a special greeting to the moderator of the event, Jorge Alacid, who is also chief coordinator for all channels at Las Provincias. Together with his colleague Amalia Yusta, he released a documentary film after visiting the Ahr Valley in July 2024.

“The slow road to reconstruction: lessons from Germany” ( “El lento camino de la reconstrucción: lecciones desde Alemania”) won an award at the Mumbai Shorts International Film Festival and received a special mention as :

• Best Documentary
• Best Concept

Congratulations to the LAS PROVINCIAS team on this recognition!

Mumbai International Short Film Festival

The film with subtitles can also be viewed on YouTube.

Der Beitrag Valencia – many steps forward and international appeal erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.

For the CSRD (sustainability reporting)

• Postponement of reporting obligations: The deadlines for reporting obligations for companies in the second and third waves have been postponed by two years.
  • Large companies that were not previously subject to reporting requirements (originally from 2025) are now expected to report from 2028 for the 2027 financial year.
  • Listed small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) (originally from 2026) now have until 2029 for initial application.
• Reduction of reporting content: The number of data points required in the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) is to be reduced and simplified.
• Voluntary EU taxonomy reporting requirements: Companies with fewer than 1,000 employees or a turnover of less than €450 million are no longer required to disclose their compliance with the EU taxonomy; this will become voluntary.
• Revision of the ESRS: The reporting standards are to be completely revamped and the interfaces with other regulations improved.

For the CSDDD (supply chain due diligence)

• Limited scope: Due diligence obligations will focus on direct business partners (Tier 1) in the supply chain. Indirect partners only need to be included if the company has specific knowledge of potential risks.
• Raising of thresholds: The directive now only applies to a very small proportion of companies, as the thresholds have been raised significantly. EU companies with more than 1,750 employees and global net sales of more than €450 million are affected.

The aim of these changes is to relieve companies, especially SMEs, of excessive bureaucracy (“simplification”). Final agreement on the “Omnibus” package containing these changes is expected after the upcoming trilogue negotiations between the EU Parliament, Commission, and Council.

Will reporting on greenhouse gas reduction still have to be based on scientific targets?

Yes, the basic obligation to report on greenhouse gas reduction remains under the CSRD. The changes proposed by the EU Parliament mainly concern the deadlines and scope of application, not the core content of climate reporting for the companies concerned.

• CSRD (sustainability reporting): The specific ESRS E1 (climate change) standard is mandatory for all companies covered by the directive and requires the disclosure of Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, the steps taken to reduce them, and the targets for emission reduction. These targets are also expected to be consistent with scientific findings and the Paris Climate Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
• CSDDD (supply chain due diligence): The directive also requires affected companies to draw up a climate plan that is consistent with the goal of climate neutrality and the 1.5-degree limit of the Paris Agreement.

Although reporting is to be simplified overall and the deadlines are being postponed, the requirements for transparency and the setting of scientifically based climate targets remain a central component of EU regulations.

Which software products are suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises to create a report themselves?

For medium-sized companies that want to create their own sustainability reports, there are various ESG and CSRD software solutions that are specifically tailored to their needs. These tools are designed to simplify and automate the process of data collection, analysis, and reporting. Choosing the right software depends on individual requirements, budget, and data complexity. Here are some examples that are suitable for medium-sized companies:

• Specialized ESG and CSRD tools: Many providers offer affordable, tiered pricing models and features tailored to SMEs. These tools often provide automation for data collection and help with CSRD compliance, including ESRS.
• VSME tools: For companies that are not yet directly covered by the CSRD but still want to produce a sustainability report (often as part of the “trickle-down” effect from business partners), there are tools based on the voluntary standard for SMEs (VSME) . These are compact and tailored to the real capabilities of smaller companies.
• German Sustainability Code (DNK) Platform: The DNK offers a free platform financed by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection. It serves as a user-friendly companion and guide to reporting and helps to easily meet the requirements of the CSRD.

Important criteria when selectiing software

When selecting software, small and medium-sized enterprises should pay attention to the following points:

• Automation: The software should largely automate data collection and processing in order to minimize internal effort.
• User-friendliness: An intuitive interface is important, as reporting is often carried out by employees who are not sustainability experts.
• Regulatory compliance: The solution must ensure that all relevant ESRS requirements are covered.
• Scalability: The software should be able to grow with the company in case requirements increase in the future. Conversely, large family offices or complex financing structures that encompass several companies should set requirements for fulfilling reporting obligations. Here, it is important to address the challenges posed by the different characteristics of associated companies. It is advisable to establish the requirements only after a materiality analysis. As long as this is not possible on a top-down basis, we recommend that companies continue their VSME or ESRS reporting in the usual manner.

Ultimately, the aim is to find a solution that reduces effort, minimizes errors, and enables accurate and transparent reporting.

What clarifications still need to be made regarding reporting on social, biodiversity-related, or other goals?

The German Federal Association for Sustainable Business (Bundesverband Nachhaltige Wirtschaft e. V.), along with other associations, is calling for clarity in reporting and transparent rules on when certain aspects of reporting may be omitted. Against this background, we recommend that individual reporting should not be reduced compared to the previous year under any circumstances, as otherwise it will not be possible to document improvements in the data series until clarity has been established. Reporters should continue to follow the existing ESRS framework. The BNW e. V. statement can be found here.

Source – European Parliament Press Office.

Der Beitrag Sustainability – what next? erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.

The terrible flood disaster in Valencia in 2024 led to political consequences on November 3, 2025. Conservative Prime Minister Mazón announced his resignation after the journalist with whom he had a business lunch on the day of the flood testified in court that Mazón had been constantly texting on his cell phone. All of this and the head of government’s responsibility are being examined in court. Mazón had previously claimed that his cell phone had been turned off during the meal. This statement seems to prove that he lied, and he has already admitted in the media that he was overwhelmed. But what does this mean for a new government that can only take action after a new election?

Valencia faces numerous challenges in making the region more resilient after the devastating floods of 2024. In addition to urgently improving crisis preparedness and warning systems, cooperation with scientific networks and civil society must also be intensified in order to find more effective long-term solutions.

Networking the flood regions of the Ahr Valley and Valencia

The newspaper Las Provincias visited us in the summer on the anniversary of the 2021 floods in the Ahr Valley and a specialist conference. Their film documentary summarizes how they see the challenges in comparison between the regions. They emphasize that without compassion for those affected, no solutions can be found, neither on the Ahr nor in Valencia. We would like to express our special thanks to Jorge Alacid López, the editor-in-chief, and Amalia Yusta Gamez for the excellent documentary. We highly recommend the film.

Civil society actors will certainly now be measuring the candidates’ positions on concrete measures in the election campaign. We would therefore like to summarize here what is important in order to help the region.

Improvement of crisis preparedness and warning systems

• Response to failed warnings: The massive criticism of the delayed and ineffective warning system in October 2024 requires a complete overhaul of the system.
• Improved communication: Delays between the issuance of meteorological warnings and the actual notification of the population must be eliminated. A fast and direct warning system for mobile phones (ES-Alert) must function reliably and be able to be triggered immediately in case of danger.
• Strengthening infrastructure: The expansion of more effective urban drainage systems, dams, and retention basins is necessary to mitigate future flash floods. Water needs space, and this must be provided.
• Stricter building regulations: In view of the damage caused by unregulated development in flood areas, building regulations must be tightened and stricter development plans enforced.

Involvement of science and civil society

• Coordination with researchers: The government must draw on the expertise of climate scientists, hydrologists, and disaster management experts to conduct risk assessments and develop prevention strategies.
• Public awareness and education: The population, especially in the most vulnerable areas, must be better informed about the risks and rules of conduct in emergencies.
• Involving civil society groups in planning: The experience and knowledge of civil society groups, which are often the first on the scene, should be incorporated into disaster management planning.
• Strengthening volunteers and organizations: Organizations such as the Red Cross must receive the necessary support in emergencies to be able to provide better first aid and longer-term recovery assistance.
• Promoting community resilience: Educational initiatives and regular drills can strengthen people’s sense of personal responsibility and improve their ability to help themselves.

Building long-term resilience

• Holistic approach: A comprehensive, cross-departmental approach that takes into account the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health is crucial to counteracting the effects of extreme weather events.
• Psychological support: Providing psychological assistance to flood victims and long-term recovery plans are crucial for the mental resilience of the community.
• Overcoming political division: Effective cooperation between the regional government and the Spanish central government is essential to avoid delays and confusion in the event of a disaster.

For further reading, we recommend the PERC study by the Zurich Foundation, which lists the necessities in a scientifically sound manner. It can now serve as a questionnaire in the election campaign.

Photo by Las Provincias, Iván Arlandis

Der Beitrag One year after DANA erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.

Flood disasters are local signs of the climate crisis, but the problem is global. That is why international meetings help to cope with and adapt to the new situation. To mark the fourth anniversary of the flood disaster in the Ahr Valley, Thinking CircularÒ organized an excursion in the Ahr Valley, workshops at the Environmental Learning School Plus of the AWB Niederzissen and a conference on the Remagen campus. The conference brought together scientists, engineers, business representatives and stakeholder associations from Germany, the Netherlands, Italy and Spain. They were supported by a network of companies that value the approach of intensive European exchange.

Excursion to the Ahr valley reveals strong similarities

The obvious analogies between the floods that hit Germany in 2021 and the floods in Valencia in 2024 provided concrete food for thought. The excursion to the Ahr Valley and the scientists’ findings were particularly decisive in this regard. In the Ahr valley, there were expert explanations from Markus Becker at the Sinzig sewage treatment plant, from Robert Füllmann at the Lohrsdorf floodplains and from Maximilian Kranich from the district town’s construction and development company, as well as from Maximilian Schell from Zukunft Mittelahr about a new approach to bridges at the Heppingen bridge. He gave his tour under the title “Dernau: A village reinvents itself”. The participants Rosa Álvarez and Carmen Gil, President and Vice President of the Association of Victims of Dana 29O, who were themselves affected by the floods in Valencia, concluded: “If you look at how Germany is doing four years later, we’re not doing so badly in Valencia.”

Teilnehmer Exkursion und Workshops Donnerstag, 03.07.2025

There are also differences

However, the different appearance of the affected regions is mainly characterized by the valleys and the wide mountains that fed the overflowing rivers. One common element is the similar number of fatalities. According to Rosa Álvarez and Carmen Gil, the admirable response of the city of Valencia after the disaster and the volunteer help in the Ahr are key factors that explain why the situation in Spain allows for a positive outlook after looking at the reconstruction in the Ahr valley. “Hope is what keeps us going,” they emphasize.

“Hope, resilience, reparation and justice – we must not forget that, because it is very important.” Both Álvarez and Gil were able to speak to people who, like them, were affected by the horrific impact of the tragedy in a region of Germany that is still anchored in the events of 2021. They spoke to Heimersheim architect Udo Heimermann, among others, to find out how he experienced these dramatic hours and how he contributed to the gradual return to normality. The lesson learned: “Cohesion within the region is the decisive factor – as in the Ahr Valley, so also in Valencia after the damage caused by the Dana.” Another lesson is that the safety measures implemented must be guided by the principle of cooperation between administrations – a variable that did not work completely in either of the two disasters.

Exchange is needed

v.l.n.r.: Eveline Lemke, Arthur tenWolde, Claudia Mensi, Jutta Paulus, Michael Hauer

The conclusion of the event, which was attended by around 100 experts and at which they also met with the State Secretary of the Ministry of the Environment, Michael Hauer, and MEP Jutta Paulus (The Greens), was: “It is necessary to have a direct exchange between those affected, the reconstruction managers in the municipalities, the scientific community and the authorities.” Gaining mutual knowledge helps to classify one’s own challenges and enables learning from an outside perspective. “The participants want to continue working towards this,” says Eveline Lemke. Against this backdrop, the results were summarized in a final document from Thinking CircularÒ , which also represents a call to the EU to facilitate this type of cooperation. You can find the final document in German, English and Spanish here:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ergebnispapier-4.7.-DEENES.pdf

The issues of the final paper were discussed with Michael Hauer (State Secretary for Climate Protection, Environment, Energy and Mobility in Rhineland-Palatinate), Jutta Paulus (MEP, The Greens/European Free Alliance), Claudia Mensi (President of FEAD European Waste Management Association) and Arthur ten Wolde (Executive Director of Ecopreneur.eu).

The participants advocated strengthening cooperation to exchange experiences and, in particular, ensuring that water, waste and soil management is strengthened across sectors early on in the crisis.

Further insights and presentations:

Dr. Jorge Alacid López holds a doctorate in communication theory, is a journalist and coordinating director of the newspaper Las Provincias, the largest and oldest media house in Valencia. In his presentation, he emphasized the role of the press in education and in the fight against fake news by providing solid information so that the region can develop. He also put the participants in an emotional mood for the event when he showed this video about the work of his journalists:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzAJfuLCJU8

Dr. Miguel Àngel Artacho Ramirez

Waste management is not automatically included in emergency plans or crisis groups. This must change, as waste management is a central element of post-crisis care. This was the conclusion reached by a group of scientists from Germany and Spain. The presentation by Prof. Miguel Ángel Artacho Ramirez, PRINS, Polytechnic University of Valencia, can be found here:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2.Artacho_Analysis-of-the-risks-faced-by-DWM.pdf

StS Michael Hauer, Salvador Ortí

Salvador Ortí from the Clean Waste Cluster in Spain is working to improve the polluted environment and is making environmental technologies available through his network. Those involved hope that this will make it easier for the authorities to comply with EU waste directives and environmental regulations. Click here for the presentation on the cluster’s role in the flood disaster:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Salvador-Orti-4th-Anniversary-Presentation-on-the-Ahr-Valley-Floods.pdf

Prof. Joan Estrany from the University of the Balearic Islands and head of the Observatory for Natural Risks and Emergencies on the Balearic Islands was able to report on the Riscbal environmental monitoring network that has been set up. Whether flood risks, forest fires or gravitational hazards: The early warning system is based on real-time data and modeling and is designed to save lives. Click here for the presentation:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/4.estrany_ahr_valley_25.pdf

Prof. Dr. Alexander Fekete from the Technical University of Cologne focuses his research on cooperation between stakeholders. He describes this as a key success factor. The interactions between crisis, waste, water and soil management are of central importance.

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/250704-Fekete-Ahrtal.pdf

Prof. Dr. Lothar Kirschbauer from Koblenz University of Applied Sciences reported on the KAHR science network, Dr. Bert Droste-Francke from IQIB complemented him. You can find the presentations here:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Vortrag_4th-Remembrance-Day_Kirschbauer_20250704.pdf

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Droste-Franke_4ter_JT_Folien_KAHR1.pdf

Karsten Freichel from Zahnen Technik GmbH presented an innovative system for forecasting and early warning of future flood events.

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/04.07.2025-Zahnen-Technik-Englisch.pdf

Jesus Perez, Managing Partner of the technology company Nunsys and President of the Clean Waste Cluster, presented his perspectives on the green transition.

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/NUNSYS-2024-DANA.pdf

We would like to thank all sponsors for making the event a success!

4º aniversario de las inundaciones en el valle del Ahr – Los expertos internacionales se centran en la cooperación

La cooperación, la cohesión y la buena comunicación entre todas las partes interesadas de la región conducen a la resiliencia

Las catástrofes causadas por las inundaciones son signos localizados de la crisis climática, pero el problema es global. Por eso las reuniones internacionales ayudan a hacer frente y adaptarse a la nueva situación. Para conmemorar el cuarto aniversario de la catástrofe de las inundaciones en el valle del Ahr, Thinking CircularÒ organizó una excursión por el valle del Ahr, talleres en la Escuela de Aprendizaje Medioambiental Plus de AWB Niederzissen y una conferencia en el campus de Remagen. La conferencia reunió a científicos, ingenieros, representantes de empresas y organizaciones de partes interesadas de Alemania, Países Bajos, Italia y España. Contaron con el apoyo de una red de empresas que aprecia el planteamiento del intercambio intensivo europeo.

Una excursión al valle del Ahr revela grandes similitudes

Las evidentes analogías entre las inundaciones que asolaron Alemania en 2021 y las de Valencia en 2024 proporcionaron elementos concretos para la reflexión. La excursión al valle del Ahr y los hallazgos de los científicos fueron especialmente decisivos en este sentido. En el valle del Ahr, Markus Becker dio explicaciones de experto en la depuradora de Sinzig, Robert Füllmann en las llanuras aluviales de Lohrsdorf, Maximilian Kranich de la empresa de construcción y desarrollo de la ciudad del distrito y Maximilian Schell de Zukunft Mittelahr sobre un nuevo enfoque de los puentes en el puente de Heppingen. Dio su recorrido bajo el título “Dernau: un pueblo se reinventa”. Las participantes Rosa Álvarez y Carmen Gil, Presidenta y Vicepresidenta de la Asociación de Víctimas de Dana 29O, afectadas ellas mismas por las inundaciones de Valencia, concluyeron: “Si miramos cómo está Alemania cuatro años después, en Valencia no estamos tan mal.”

También hay diferencias

Sin embargo, el diferente aspecto de las regiones afectadas se caracteriza principalmente por los valles y las amplias montañas que alimentaron los ríos desbordados. Un elemento común es el número similar de víctimas mortales. Según Rosa Álvarez y Carmen Gil, la admirable respuesta de la ciudad de Valencia tras la catástrofe y la ayuda voluntaria en el Ahr son factores clave que explican por qué la situación en España permite mirar con optimismo la reconstrucción en el valle del Ahr. “La esperanza es lo que nos hace seguir adelante”, subrayan.

“Esperanza, resiliencia, reparación y justicia: no debemos olvidarlo, porque es muy importante”. Tanto Álvarez como Gil pudieron hablar con personas que, como ellos, se vieron afectadas por el horrible impacto de la tragedia en una región de Alemania que sigue anclada en los acontecimientos de 2021. Hablaron, entre otros, con el arquitecto de Heimersheim Udo Heimermann, para saber cómo vivió aquellas dramáticas horas y cómo contribuyó a la paulatina vuelta a la normalidad. La lección aprendida: “La cohesión dentro de la región es el factor decisivo; como en el valle del Ahr, también en Valencia tras los daños causados por el Dana”. Otra lección aprendida es que las medidas de seguridad aplicadas deben guiarse por el principio de cooperación entre administraciones, una variable que no funcionó del todo en ninguna de las dos catástrofes.

El intercambio es necesario

La conclusión del acto, al que asistieron un centenar de expertos y en el que también se reunieron con el Secretario de Estado del Ministerio de Medio Ambiente, Michael Hauer, y la eurodiputada Jutta Paulus (Los Verdes), fue: “Es necesario un diálogo directo entre los afectados, los responsables de la reconstrucción en los municipios, la comunidad científica y las autoridades”. Adquirir un conocimiento mutuo ayuda a categorizar los propios retos y permite aprender desde una perspectiva externa. “Los participantes quieren seguir trabajando en este sentido”, afirma Eveline Lemke. En este contexto, los resultados se resumieron en un documento final de Thinking CircularÒ , que también representa un llamamiento a la UE para que facilite este tipo de cooperación. Puede encontrar el documento final en alemán, inglés y español aquí:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Ergebnispapier-4.7.-DEENES.pdf

Los temas del documento final se debatieron con Michael Hauer (Secretario de Estado de Protección del Clima, Medio Ambiente, Energía y Movilidad de Renania-Palatinado), Jutta Paulus (eurodiputada de Los Verdes/Alianza Libre Europea), Claudia Mensi (Presidenta de la Asociación Europea de Gestión de Residuos FEAD) y Arthur ten Wolde (Director Ejecutivo de Ecopreneur.eu).

Los participantes se mostraron partidarios de reforzar la cooperación para intercambiar experiencias y, en particular, de velar por que la gestión del agua, los residuos y el suelo se refuerce en todos los sectores en una fase temprana de la crisis.

Más información y presentaciones:

El Dr. Jorge Alacid López es doctor en teoría de la comunicación, periodista y jefe de coordinación del diario Las Provincias, el mayor y más antiguo medio de comunicación de Valencia. En su presentación, hizo hincapié en el papel de la prensa a la hora de concienciar y combatir las noticias falsas proporcionando información sólida para que la región pueda seguir desarrollándose. También hizo que los participantes se emocionaran con el acto al proyectar este vídeo sobre el trabajo de sus periodistas:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzAJfuLCJU8

La gestión de residuos no se incluye automáticamente en los planes de emergencia ni en los grupos de crisis. Esto debe cambiar, porque la gestión de residuos es un elemento central de la atención post-crisis. Esta fue la conclusión a la que llegó un grupo de científicos de Alemania y España. La presentación del Prof. Miguel Ángel Artacho Ramirez, PRINS, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, puede consultarse aquí:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2.Artacho_Analysis-of-the-risks-faced-by-DWM.pdf

Salvador Ortí, del Cluster de Residuos Limpios de España, se esfuerza por mejorar el medio ambiente contaminado y pone a disposición tecnologías medioambientales a través de su red. Los implicados esperan que esto facilite a las autoridades el cumplimiento de las directivas comunitarias sobre residuos y la normativa medioambiental. Haga clic aquí para ver la presentación sobre el papel del cluster en la catástrofe de las inundaciones:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Salvador-Orti-4th-Anniversary-Presentation-on-the-Ahr-Valley-Floods.pdf

El profesor Joan Estrany, de la Universidad de las Islas Baleares y responsable del Observatorio de Riesgos y Emergencias Naturales de Baleares, ha podido informar sobre la red de vigilancia medioambiental Riscbal que se ha puesto en marcha. Ya se trate de riesgos de inundaciones, incendios forestales o peligros gravitacionales: El sistema de alerta temprana se basa en datos y modelos en tiempo real y pretende salvar vidas. Haga clic aquí para ver la presentación:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/4.estrany_ahr_valley_25.pdf

El profesor Alexander Fekete, de la Universidad Técnica de Colonia, centra su investigación en la cooperación entre las partes interesadas. La describe como un factor clave del éxito. Las interacciones entre crisis, residuos, agua y gestión del suelo son de vital importancia.

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/250704-Fekete-Ahrtal.pdf

El Prof. Dr. Lothar Kirschbauer, de la Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas de Coblenza, informó sobre la red científica KAHR, y el Dr. Bert Droste-Francke, de IQIB, aportó información adicional. Puede consultar las presentaciones aquí:

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Vortrag_4th-Remembrance-Day_Kirschbauer_20250704.pdf

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Droste-Franke_4ter_JT_Folien_KAHR1.pdf

Karsten Freichel, de Zahnen Technik GmbH, presentó un innovador sistema de previsión y alerta temprana de futuras inundaciones.

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/04.07.2025-Zahnen-Technik-Englisch.pdf

Jesús Pérez, Socio Director de la empresa tecnológica Nunsys y Presidente del Cluster de Residuos Limpios, presentó sus perspectivas sobre la transición ecológica.

https://thinking-circular.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/NUNSYS-2024-DANA.pdf

Queremos dar las gracias a todos los patrocinadores por el éxito del evento.

Der Beitrag 4th anniversary of the flood in the Ahr Valley – International experts focus on cooperation erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.

In many of our podcasts and scientific reports, we compare the devastating floods on the Ahr River in 2021 with the events in the Valencia region last year. Today, we would like to focus on a special aspect of nature conservation and ask for your support with just a few clicks. It’s about water, the elixir of life, and the special significance of the Albufera freshwater lake in the Valencia region.

The Albufera was named Lake of the Year 2020. The title has been awarded annually on February 2 since 2004. On World Wetlands Day, the Global Nature Fund awards this title to one of the world’s most important endangered lakes for a year to draw attention to the ecological problems facing these wetlands.

The situation in the Albufera has changed as a result of flooding, as more rainfall is feeding the wetland. However, the situation has not necessarily improved, even though more fresh water can be diverted to the surrounding agricultural areas, which can produce up to three harvests per year.

Application for recognition as a biosphere reserve

The mayors of the neighboring municipalities of Cullera, Cataroja, Sueca, Algemesi Alfafar, Silla, Albal, Sedavi, Massnassa, Sollana, Albalat de Ribera, Beniparrell, and Valencia have applied to UNESCO for the Albufera to be recognized as a biosphere reserve. In this video, you can hear their reasons, which are not aimed at controversy but at the joint development of the region. Against the backdrop of the political dispute between the autonomously governed region of Valencia and the central government, it is particularly frustrating for local actors when progress is blocked by power politics. The alliance for the biosphere reserve application is therefore above all one thing: an alliance of the political center and common sense.

In the latest podcast, we discuss the differences between the various protected areas and attempt to compare the Albufera with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Middle Rhine Valley and the FFH protected area of the Ahr Valley. Direct comparisons help to understand why protected areas that fail at the national level can be successful at the international level. The idea that international visibility can lead to local protection is not just an idea, but has proven to be a functioning mechanism. However, every applicant must be aware that review committees will decide on the applications and examine them closely. In addition, applicants must submit a concept that ensures sustainable management of the area in harmony with nature and economic use.

The region has a lot of experience in this area, as the use of the Albufera and its fresh water has been regulated by contract since the 17th century. The usage contracts have only been revised at long intervals and are considered historical. This is also something special and must be continued. The mayors insist on this.

Thinking Circular® is listed as a helpdesk by the United Nations, and we want to fulfill this role—let’s help the Albufera! Sign the petition for the Albufera, which was published in the regional newspaper “Las Provincias.” Under Spanish law, an ID document must be presented for online petitions; no fakes should be created, so don’t let that deter you.

Der Beitrag Support for the Albufera erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.

Thinking Circular® is pleased to be providing the “Deep Dive Circular Economy” workshop in the second module of the training.

The requirements of sustainability regulation are an opportunity for companies and organizations to position themselves resiliently for the future. The BIGL training course addresses precisely this potential: going beyond the mere fulfillment of reporting obligations, we prepare supervisory board members for the confident management and monitoring of the current transformation processes towards a sustainable economy.

What the program offers you:
· You will learn from and with sustainability pioneers!
· You will develop an understanding of global developments that have led to the sustainability policy that you are currently dealing with on the supervisory board.
· You will acquire comprehensive knowledge of the systematics and content of sustainability regulations that affect companies: from disclosure requirements to prescribed climate scenario analyses.
You will gain a comprehensive understanding of potential corporate risks arising from current systemic crises (ecosystem crises, social crises, political crises).
You will learn about the success factors of good sustainable governance and how to implement them efficiently.
You will be inspired by companies that have already successfully embarked on transition paths.
You will develop on a personal level and gain skills in dealing with high complexity and potential conflicts of interest.
You will develop best practices and reflect on challenges in a trusting exchange with a maximum of 15-18 participants.
After completing the training, you will receive a certificate of advanced training.

The program is funded by the Mercator Foundation.

A virtual information event will provide insights into the training program:
Tuesday, February 11, 12-12.45 p.m.
Informal registration is possible via office@bigl.org

More Information.

Flyer of the training.

Der Beitrag Training in sustainability skills for supervisory boards: Good Sustainable Corporate Governance erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.

International norms and standards can play a central role in the fight against climate change and in adapting to it. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has therefore revised not only its central standard for the environmental management system ISO 14001, but also the standards for many other management systems, including the important ISO 9001, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO 45001 and ISO 50001. The aim of the ISO is to put the issue of climate change even higher on the agenda of certified organizations to recognize possible effects from the environment on the organization or possible effects of the organization on the environment at an early stage, to evaluate these opportunities and risks and to address them systematically, and thus ultimately to strengthen the resilience of the organization.

What was the initial idea?

Climate change is confronting the world with ever-increasing challenges. Organizations are already feeling the effects today: local extreme weather events such as heat waves, storms, floods or fires are becoming more frequent and endangering the health of employees, facilities and materials. Employees suffer from high temperatures and make more mistakes. The supply of raw materials is becoming less secure in some cases and planning reliability is decreasing. Demand for water, including for cooling, is increasing, as are costs. The energy supply has to be converted, and new and stricter legal and contractual requirements are being issued. Market expectations shift, sometimes steadily, sometimes immediately.

However, climate change as a driver of sustainable transformation also offers opportunities: disruptive business ideas are being developed and replacing old ones. New, promising products and services are entering the market, and market priorities and expectations are changing permanently.

What specifically has been changed?

In all relevant standards, chapters 4.1. and 4.2 have always required organizations to know their interested parties and to regularly consider the extent to which they can influence the effectiveness of their management system.
These previous requirements have now been supplemented: in the context analysis, organizations must in future systematically consider the effects of climate change. This must be done holistically, i.e. taking into account all interested parties and all processes, as well as specifically for the industry, products, locations, etc.

When does the change take effect?

The update has already taken place in 2024. Since this is not a lengthy change to the various existing standards, but rather an addition, the requirement already applies today. This means that auditors are already checking whether and how the organization has taken into account the effects of climate change as part of the surveillance and certification audits.

What does this mean for companies?

Consider the impacts of climate change on your organization and address them systematically and holistically. Identify and reduce risks, take advantage of opportunities, and make your organization resilient and future-ready.

How should you proceed?

The management representatives, as the central coordinators, should first get top management on board, inform them of the formal changes, and establish a regular process for this together.

A broad group of experts should systematically work through the possible opportunities and risks, i.e. first identify them, then evaluate and prioritize them, and, if necessary, take action. It is important to put oneself in the shoes of all relevant stakeholders in order not to overlook any points.

The key questions are:

• What strategic opportunities arise for the organization as a result of climate change? Where are its particular competencies and strengths in demand? What can be done to mitigate climate change or increase resilience within the organization, among customers, consumers or certain other social groups?
• What negative effects can climate change have on the organization? What dangers exist? How must the organization adapt? Which processes, products or services must be secured?

After the first phase, the identification of opportunities and risks, these must be individually evaluated and prioritized; usually semi-quantitatively and considering the two dimensions

• probability of occurrence and
• the severity of the impact if it occurs.

The opportunities and risks identified as relevant are then assigned specific measures and processed systematically. It is important to note that this analysis cannot be a one-time effort, but must be repeated regularly because both the organization and its environment can change: opportunities and risks can develop, assessments can be adjusted, and measures taken can be effective or ineffective.

Do you have any general questions regarding this new ISO requirement? Do you require support in identifying and managing your opportunities and risks? Are you looking for help in determining and following up meaningful corrective and preventive measures? Are you wondering how this can be combined with other legal requirements?

The competent and experienced Thinking Circular® team is ready to assist you.

By: Dr. Thomas Jagella

Der Beitrag Climate change: Opportunity and risk assessments are now a mandatory part of the ISO standards erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.

The public images from Valencia are strongly reminiscent of the events in the Ahr Valley and evoke sympathy for the affected people in Spain. Eveline Lemke, former Minister of Economic Affairs of Rhineland-Palatinate, accepted an urgent invitation from the local municipal association and the Clean Waste cluster, together with Stephan Müllers, technical director of the Ahrweiler waste management company, and Prof. Alexander Fekete from the Cologne University of Applied Sciences. Together, the experts were on site from January 8 to 11, 2025, to assess the situation and attend an expert conference at the Polytechnic University of Valencia.

Joint efforts for a better future

Müllers and Lemke have been working closely together since the 2021 Ahr flood. Among other things, they conducted a scientific study on the management of flood debris on the Ahr and closely monitored the actions of various stakeholders. The report was published the following year and received a great deal of attention. In view of the complex waste problems in Valencia, which still exist 60 days after the flood, the experience of the German experts was urgently needed.

Prof. Alexander Fekete’s international knowledge in crisis research complements the technical expertise in waste management in crisis management. The three German experts, together with Spanish practitioners from a network of waste management, under the direction of Prof. Miguel Angel Artacho Ramirez of the Polytechnic University of Valencia, have devoted themselves to the observation and development of solutions for the flood problem.

Expert conference at the Polytechnic University of Valencia. V.l.n.r.: Salvador Ortì, Cluster Clean Waste, Jesus Martinez, Greene, Prof. Miguel Ramirez, UPV, Eveline Lemke, Thinking Circular, Andé Höchemer, Dolmetscher

Satellite images and historical channel structures

Before their trip, the experts evaluated satellite images showing the silt deposits in the Valencian lagoon after the DANA flood. These images were supplemented by the impressions and reports of local residents whose plight is absolutely comparable to the situation in the Ahr valley in 2021. However, the extent of the overload of the drainage structures in Valencia, which date from the 8th century and were introduced by the Moors, was surprising. The overloading of these structures caused a flood with water levels of 1-2 meters in a wide swath, destroying 120,000 cars, among other things.

Drain in Valencia

Drain in Valencia

Waste management challenges in Valencia

The situation on the ground presents Spain with significant challenges in the circular economy, as waste treatment practices there lag far behind German standards. This also applies to organizational structures, unsecured landfills, the lack of waste incinerators and the improper handling of hazardous waste. The lack of technical facilities for the disposal and treatment of waste makes it clear that the waste issue will continue to occupy the Valencia region for a long time to come. The exchange of ideas with scientific experts and stakeholders is to be intensified by setting up a group of experts in order to develop joint solutions.

Damaged vehicles at an assembly point will be further destroyed during loading.

Challenges of the human dimension

Eveline Lemke next to the announcement of a business closure

The suffering of the people in the affected neighborhoods is great. Although the drinking water supply in Valencia itself is working again, chaos and devastation still prevail in many places. The flood has claimed many lives, often people were trapped or swept away by the water in their cars, basements or in underground garages. These patterns are obviously similar to those in the Ahr Valley, but the dimension of the affected underground garages in Valencia is enormous and not comparable. Even today, three-storey underground car parks are being pumped dry, and 9,000 military personnel are still deployed to provide support. Large industrial areas have been affected and economic activity is severely restricted.

Future cooperation and research

“Out of sight, out of mind” seems to be the political motto when it comes to waste disposal, with unsorted waste being transported to quarries or landfills. The dangerous entry into the groundwater has received little attention so far. That is why the experts led by Prof. Miguel Angel Artacho Ramirez of the Polytechnic University of Valencia have formed a group that will be dedicated to observing and developing questions about flooding.

The exchange with scientific experts and those affected should be further intensified: “We want to invite our friends from Valencia to answer their questions with us and at our place. Together we can achieve more than alone. The topic of flood waste must also come to an end at some point; together we can perhaps be of help here,” says Eveline Lemke.

You can find the press review of the coverage in the Spanish media here.

Der Beitrag After the flood – waste and no end, also in Valencia erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.

The CSRD, CSDDD and the EU Taxonomy are key instruments for promoting sustainable business. They set out the key issues and define the indicators that must be reported on. However, the rules are not consistent in themselves and the scale of the indicators is too large. Companies groan under the excessive demands and consultants provide information with different focuses. So how do you deal with a reporting rule that is in flux? This report focuses on a solution that can be easily integrated into reporting as a software module. You can read about what it is and what it can do here:

As a leading software provider for sustainability reporting, Cubemos now offers a new EU Taxonomy Module. Cubemos has developed a new, innovative module specifically for taxonomy. This tool enables companies to design their reporting efficiently and in compliance with the new requirements of the EU taxonomy. Take advantage of this opportunity now, with Cubemos at your side, to position your company sustainably!

Basis of the EU taxonomy

The EU taxonomy is a set of rules of the European Union that identifies economic activities that are considered environmentally sustainable. Introduced by Regulation (EU) 2020/852, the taxonomy sets out clear criteria by which economic activities can be classified as environmentally sustainable. It was developed to provide investors with clear criteria for making sustainable investment decisions. The taxonomy contains criteria that determine which activities make a positive contribution to environmental goals.

Objectives and motivation behind the EU Taxonomy

The EU Taxonomy was introduced as part of the European Green Deal and the Action Plan on Financing Sustainable Growth. Its aim is to channel capital flows into sustainable projects in order to achieve the EU’s climate targets and increase market transparency. This should also help to prevent greenwashing and ensure that only truly sustainable investments are designated as such.

The EU taxonomy is driven by a variety of motives, including combating climate change, protecting the environment, strengthening economic competitiveness and meeting international commitments such as the Paris Climate Agreement. It supports the EU in achieving its ambitious climate targets, preserving biodiversity, reducing pollution and using natural resources sustainably. At the same time, it is intended to help channel capital flows into sustainable investments, promote green technologies and innovations and create sustainable jobs.

Focus on environmental objectives: the six core areas

The EU taxonomy focuses on six key environmental objectives:
1. Climate protection: Measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change. This includes investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency and sustainable transportation solutions.
2. Climate change adaptation: strategies for dealing with the consequences of climate change. This includes increasing the resilience of the economy and society to the unavoidable effects of climate change. Examples include projects to improve infrastructure and disaster prevention.
3.Sustainable use of water resources: protection and sustainable use of water resources, including improving water quality and efficient water use in agriculture and industry.
4. Transition to a circular economy: promoting recycling and waste minimization through reuse of resources and other innovative processes for more efficient use of resources. This promotes sustainable production and consumption.
5. Pollution prevention: Measures to reduce pollutant emissions. They aim to prevent or significantly reduce pollution of air, water and soil. This includes technologies to limit emissions and environmentally friendly production methods.
6. Protection of ecosystems and biodiversity: conservation and restoration of natural habitats and biodiversity. This includes protected areas, reforestation projects and sustainable land use practices.

Quelle: BMWK – Sustainable Finance-Taxonomie

Do no significant harm

A central element of the EU taxonomy is the principle of “Do No Significant Harm” (DNSH). This ensures that an economic activity that makes a significant contribution to one of the above-mentioned environmental objectives must not cause significant harm (Do No Significant Harm), i.e. must not have a significant negative impact on other environmental objectives.

Mandatory nature and timeframe of the EU taxonomy

The EU taxonomy will be mandatory for large companies covered by the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD) and for financial market participants. From 2022 or 2023, these players will have to assess their activities according to the criteria of the EU Taxonomy and disclose how their investments contribute to environmental objectives. This applies in particular to companies in the energy, transportation, real estate and raw materials sectors.

Reporting obligations: Turnover, CapEx and OpEx

Companies must provide detailed information on the following indicators as part of the EU Taxonomy:
1. Turnover refers to a company’s total revenue from ordinary activities. In the context of the EU taxonomy, companies must indicate the proportion of their turnover that comes from sustainable economic activities.
2 CapEx (Capital Expenditures) refers to funds spent on the acquisition, improvement or maintenance of physical assets. Companies must report what proportion of their capital expenditure is spent on sustainable projects and assets.
3 OpEx (Operational Expenditures) are operating expenses that include the ongoing costs of maintaining day-to-day operations. According to the EU taxonomy, companies must indicate what proportion of this expenditure is used for sustainable activities.

This reporting enables investors and other stakeholders to better assess a company’s sustainability performance and make informed decisions.

Why companies should act now

This all sounds like a lot of effort. However, companies that adapt to the requirements of the EU taxonomy at an early stage will benefit from several advantages:
– Market leadership: early adaptation to sustainable practices gives companies a competitive advantage.
– Building trust: Transparent reporting strengthens the trust of investors, customers and other stakeholders.
– Risk minimization: Early compliance reduces the risk of sanctions and reputational damage.
– Contribution to global goals: Companies make an active contribution to achieving European and global sustainability goals.

Conclusion: The future relevance of the EU taxonomy

The EU taxonomy is more than just a regulatory instrument. It offers companies the opportunity to position themselves in a growing market for sustainable investments and to further develop their sustainability strategy. By implementing the taxonomy, companies can not only meet legal requirements, but also realize and benefit from economic and environmental advantages in the long term.

Cubemos offers the ideal tool to make this topic easy to implement with its new EU taxonomy module. Take the opportunity to integrate sustainable practices into your reporting and business strategy!

Sources:

• EU Technical Expert Group on Sustainable Finance: Technic Report – Taxonomy: Final report of the Technical Expert Group on Sustainable Finance
• ELS Europe: Do No Significant Harm Handbook
• Europäische Kommission: EU Taxonomy Navigator
• BMWK: Sustainable Finance-Taxonomie
• EU Taxonomy Info: EU Taxonomie Grundlagen
• Wirtschaftsprüferkammer: EU Taxonomie-Verordnung

Der Beitrag Omnibus procedure erschien zuerst auf Thinking Circular.