KOPUR d.o.o. has received an innovation award for its project "Transforming Thermoset Composite Waste into Sustainable Urban Furniture", marking an important step towards more efficient waste management and the advancement of circular economy principles.
The innovation was developed in cooperation with the Faculty of Polymer Technology (FTPO) within the European DeremCo project, which focuses on creating new solutions for the reuse of difficult-to-recycle composite materials. The collaboration resulted in two functional products – a bench and a raised planter – manufactured primarily from recycled thermoset composite waste.
Composite materials are widely used across industries such as construction, energy and transportation. However, once they reach the end of their service life, they pose a significant environmental challenge. Due to their complex structure, these materials are difficult to recycle, and most composite waste still ends up in landfills or incineration facilities.
To address this challenge, KOPUR developed a technological process that enables the transformation of composite waste into new products with high added value. A key feature of the solution is the ability to utilize all fractions of the recycled material, including the finest particles, ensuring maximum material efficiency and minimizing waste. This approach converts end-of-life materials into durable and functional products without compromising quality or performance.
The bench and raised planter contain 93% recycled content, significantly reducing waste generation, lowering the demand for virgin raw materials and contributing to a smaller carbon footprint. At the same time, they demonstrate how challenging industrial waste streams can be successfully integrated into new circular business models.
The innovation delivers benefits for both industry and local communities. It enables companies to improve resource efficiency and reduce waste management costs, while providing municipalities and public space managers with sustainable urban furniture that offers clear environmental value.
The award received from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia (CCIS) confirms the importance of collaboration between industry, research institutions and local communities in developing innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. At KOPUR, we remain committed to advancing technologies that transform waste into new opportunities and contribute to a more circular and responsible economy.