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Two researchers testing recycling material

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Circular economy and resource efficiency Solutions for sustainable products and materials

The circular economy and resource efficiency are key approaches for a sustainable future. The Lucerne School of Engineering and Architecture researches innovative solutions to keep materials and products in the material cycle for as long as possible with the highest possible value.

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In this thematic focus area, our researchers are working on developments to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable, economical solutions. Be it in the construction industry, in industrial production or in the energy sector. Circular economy refers to a systemic approach to the longer and more efficient use of resources. Resource efficiency means the optimal use of materials and energy during planning, construction and operation.

The Lucerne School of Engineering and Architecture is a leader in the research and development of innovative solutions in the field of circular economy and resource efficiency. Our experts provide you with science-based and practical support in overcoming specific challenges in your company or organization.

Our expertise in the circular economy and resource efficiency

Eco design in product development

Our research supplements the previous economic drivers (e.g. costs) in the product development process with sustainability criteria over the entire life cycle. These include, in particular, material selection, recyclability, form and function optimization.

Advanced Mechanical Engineering

Our research relies on modern digital tools in combination with proven experimental methods and test procedures to make products and processes more efficient and sustainable.

Sustainable Production Systems

For the production of industrial and consumer goods, we work together with system manufacturers and users to optimize entire value chains in combination with digital technologies and implement a holistic contribution to sustainability.

Circular and Sustainable Economy

We develop comprehensible solutions and methods based on research and service projects for the goal-oriented implementation of science-based sustainability projects in companies.

Transformation for a circular settlement area

We research the strategic transformation of built living space. The central theme here is the implementation of the circular economy in the construction industry and in urban development.

Recycle, Reuse, Reduce in architecture

With this cross-cutting theme, we are devoting ourselves to new construction, circularity and life cycles, which still require a fundamental understanding of the examination of material and construction.

Circular economy in building technology

Our research and development addresses analyses, concepts and solutions for circular construction with a focus on building technology.

Biosystems

We study microorganisms and their interactions with the environment in order to efficiently produce products such as bioplastics, biofuels and even food additives.

Sustainability and preservation of supporting structures

We deal with the inspection, maintenance and renovation of existing load-bearing structures as well as the use of environmentally friendly building materials and the development of sustainable construction methods such as earth building, timber construction and hybrid construction.

Sustainability in furnishings and interior design

In order to reduce CO2 consumption and waste production in the construction sector, our research focuses on constructive and design solutions that take both sustainability and aesthetics into account.

Focus on research and services

pieces of modern timber construction

Contribution to the paradigm shift in timber construction

What does it take for the circular economy to succeed in timber construction? As part of the circularWOOD project, we have developed scenarios for the dismantling and reuse of building parts and components. This won us the “Sustainability Challenge 2024” from the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB) in the research category. (in German)

Kreislaufstrategie für die Lufthansa Gruppe / SWISS

Wie kann die Flugindustrie zu mehr Nachhaltigkeit beitragen? Bei jedem Flug werden viel Einwegartikel an Bord verwendet. Materialflüsse aber auch die Frage der Bewertungsmöglichkeiten solcher Circular Economy Bestrebungen sind Teil des Projekts

Kaskadenmodell zirkuläre Gebäudetechnik

Das Projekt zeigt anhand konkreter Praxisbeispiele, welchen Beitrag die Gebäudetechnik zum Erreichen des Netto-Null Ziels leisten kann. Die Forschungsergebnisse werden an einem realen Projekt getestet, um Ökobilanz, Kosten und Anwendbarkeit zu überprüfen.

Urner Wald

Innovative Betrachtung des Wirkungsgefüges Wald-Holz-Gesellschaft

Wie kann die Wald- und Holzwirtschaft zur Reduktion von CO2 in der Atmosphäre durch die Verwendung von lokalem Holz gefördert werden? Zwei Projekte aus der Zentralschweiz zeigen dies auf.

Our experts in this field