Circular economy in the furniture sector: R-evolve pilots kick-off
7. October 2025
IFZ is coordinating the Horizon Europe R-evolve project, which aims to provide the EU furniture industry with systematic and comprehensive support to accelerate its transition towards a circular economy.
Nine pilot projects will test and implement selected product-system innovations. Based on the outcomes of these pilots, tailored implementation guidelines and training materials will be developed to help companies enhance the circularity of their products and business operations.
The R-evolve Innovation Camp in Copenhagen, which took place September 8th-11th 2025, was the kick-off for the nine pilot projects. The event brought together stakeholders from across the furniture sector to develop strategies for sustainability and circular economy business models (CEBMs), as well as the Digital Product Passport (DPP). Over three days, participants collaborated on the pilot projects, exploring circular design, data-driven opportunities and new business models.
Workshops and discussions focused on the DPP as a tool for transparency and innovation, in line with upcoming EU regulations on sustainable design. Hands-on sessions enabled teams to analyze and redesign products for easier disassembly, demonstrating the importance of collaborating with industry partners.
The Innovation Camp concluded with presentations of design strategies and insights, marking an important step towards advancing circular practices in the furniture industry. Building on these results, the R-evolve project will continue to foster modular solutions and innovative business models that support the EU Green Deal and a more sustainable future.
