The Cradle-ALP project supports the transition towards a more circular and regenerative economy in the Alpine Space. Based on the cradle to cradle (C2C) principles and co-financed by the European Union through the Interreg Alpine Space programme, the project focuses on five important sectors: packaging, textiles, polymers/composites, chemistry/materials, and wood/furniture.
We are now in the middle of the piloting phase, where ideas are being tested in practice and first results are already visible. But how it all started?
A Strong Start: Study Visits and Sectoral Analysis
At the beginning of the project, we organised several study visits to companies already working according to cradle to cradle principles (study visits summary). These visits showed that circular transformation is not just a theory – it is possible and already happening in some cases.
Afterwards, we conducted a status quo analysis for each of the five sectors (sector analysis overview). This helped us understand where each sector stands today, what is already in place, and where the biggest challenges lie. It became clear that every sector needs its own specific approach.
Laying the Foundation: Roadmaps for Transformation
Based on the analysis, we developed five sector-specific roadmaps (packaging, chemicals/materials, polymers/composites, textiles, wood/furniture). The roadmaps include short-, mid-, and long-term actions to guide companies and stakeholders through their transformation journey.
At the same time, the roadmaps also made it clear that transformation is not easy. Many companies raised concerns, especially about regulations, costs, and technical feasibility. These important issues are now being addressed during the piloting phase.
From Plans to Practice: Piloting New Tools and Approaches
Since mid-2024, we have been testing different tools and methods in real company environments. Some of the tools we are using are the Circularity Compass, the Sustainable Business Model Canvas, the Lego Serious Play, the LCA (Life Cycle Analysis) guide, and the Value Chain Generator.
In the chemistry and materials sectors, pilot activities are focused on helping SMEs better understand their life cycles and circular potential.
In the polymer/composite sector, companies are exploring how to redesign their products and processes to be more circular, even though many have long been operating in linear systems.
In the textile and packaging sectors, companies are rethinking materials and sustainable sourcing practices.
In the wood and furniture sector, pilot activities focus on supporting companies to close material loops, especially in relation to product design and sourcing.
From Local to Transregional: Matchmaking Events
To further support circular transformation beyond individual companies, we are organising matchmaking events that bring together businesses from different sectors and regions. These events offer valuable opportunities to meet potential partners, exchange experiences, and explore new ideas for collaboration along the value chain. So far, we have successfully organised matchmaking events in the chemistry and composite sectors, where companies discussed common challenges and opportunities for circular redesign.
More matchmaking opportunities are planned:
- 26 May 2025: Matchmaking event for the wood and furniture sector, focusing on how circularity can be better integrated into design, production, and end-of-life strategies.
- 13 June 2025: Matchmaking event for the packaging sector, where companies can connect and explore circular solutions for packaging materials and systems.
A Shared Momentum Towards a Circular Industry
Today, Cradle-ALP is progressing very well. First experiences show that circular transformation is possible, but it requires time, resources, and strong partnerships. The Alpine Space — already known for its nature and innovation — is showing Europe that change towards a circular economy can happen here, if we work together and stay realistic about the challenges. The road ahead is not easy. Many barriers still exist, and transformation requires continuous effort. But the partners and companies involved in Cradle-ALP are motivated to continue the journey.
We invite more companies to join us!
Piloting activities are ongoing and will continue until the end of June 2025. Companies from the five sectors are very welcome to test the tools, exchange with others, and shape their own transformation path together with us.
If you are interested, please get in touch with the Cradle-ALP team! To find out more about the project and why cradle to cradle is a good approach for the future, we also invite you to watch our Cradle-ALP video linked to this article.
