Circular Economy in Practice: Borealis and Messe Düsseldorf Test Reusable Cup System at K 2025
16.02.2026
At K 2025, a comprehensive reusable cup system was used for the first time at the Messe Düsseldorf exhibition centre. Together with Borealis, the trade fair tested a circular concept for beverage packaging based on chemically recycled raw materials. The pilot project shows how reuse, mechanical recycling and social engagement can work together at large events.
As part of the pilot project, 50,000 reusable cups made from foamable polypropylene from Borealis were used. The material is based on chemically recycled raw materials from OMV's ReOil® technology and is an example of innovative approaches in the circular economy.
Bockatech, Faerch, MCC Global IML and ARBURG were also involved along the value chain. The cups were used in restaurants, bars and food trucks on the exhibition grounds and at selected exhibitor stands.
A specially set up return and cleaning system with around 50 collection stations enabled rapid reuse within a few hours.
Reuse, Donation and Mechanical Recycling
After the trade fair ended, the remaining cups were collected, cleaned and sorted:
- Over 4,000 cups went to local scout groups and social projects.
- Around 15,000 cups were donated to the Diakonie Düsseldorf.
- Damaged cups or those recovered from residual waste are mechanically recycled at mtm plastics (Borealis Group) in Germany.
Scalable Circular Solution for Large Events
Thomas Franken, Director of K at Messe Düsseldorf, emphasises that the project has shown that visitors are willing to actively engage with circular solutions. The insights gained will be incorporated into future concepts for waste prevention and reuse.
Borealis also emphasises the importance of collaboration along the entire value chain. The pilot project demonstrates that large-scale reusable systems are feasible even in complex event environments when material innovation, logistics and recycling processes are integrated.
The initiative underscores that promoting the circular economy, especially in the area of reusable packaging and recycling, is also feasible at highly frequented events.