The construction industry is at the heart of the climate transition: it consumes the most resources while also generating the largest amounts of waste—both in Krefeld and many other cities. This is where the new Circular Valley Construction Hub comes in, viewing buildings and infrastructure not as disposable objects but as material banks of the future.
“In Krefeld, the industrial heritage offers interesting buildings for implementing the circular approach,” explains Elmar Klein-Hessling, authorized signatory of GGK Grundstücksgesellschaft der Stadt Krefeld mbH & Co. KG, where the project is anchored. A new startup center is currently being developed in the city center in a former textile factory from the 1920s—and with it, the future site of the Circular Valley Construction Hub, which from 2027 will serve as a real-world laboratory, experience space, and communication hub. The setup has already begun: with initial pilot projects and a digital platform providing information on materials, inventories, and potential for reuse.
“We want to show that circular construction is not only possible but also economically viable,” explains Monika Zurnatzis, project manager of the Circular Valley Construction Hub Krefeld and part of KREFELD BUSINESS. “The greatest potential lies in existing buildings, where previously used resources can be redeployed. We are currently testing this in our revitalization project on Luisenstraße. The Hub will specifically support founders and users, promote sustainable business models, and strengthen interdisciplinary knowledge exchange from planning and deconstruction to material reuse.”
Circular Valley, headquartered in Wuppertal, is considered an international platform for innovations in the circular economy. With today’s contract signings, several regional hubs will become part of this network—each with its own thematic focus. In Krefeld, the focus is on circular construction and renovation of existing buildings—closely linked to the transformation processes of the city and region.
“This partnership connects local practice with international innovative strength,” emphasizes Eckart Preen, head of economic affairs for the city of Krefeld and director of KREFELD BUSINESS, adding: “With the Construction Hub, we are creating a place where innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability come together in the best sense—and thus a model that extends far beyond the city itself.”
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
Your contact person:
KREFELD BUSINESS | Annegret Angerhausen-Reuter | Member of Management and Press Officer
+49 2151 82074-44 | annegret.angerhausen-reuter@krefeld-business.de