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The Fachverband Werkzeugindustrie e.V. (FWI) is the professional organisation of manufacturers of hand tools, machine tools and construction fastening technology in Germany. In addition to promoting quality tools and ensuring practical design and implementation of laws, among other things, the FWI also offers its member companies extensive networking opportunities. For an association with around 150 member companies, dealing with topics such as sustainability and environmental protection is also part of its day-to-day business.
For this reason, FWI, in collaboration with RecycleMe, offers its member companies regular events, for example in the form of get-togethers or online webinars, at which RecycleMe experts provide comprehensive information on relevant topics from the circular economy. As a sister association of FWI, the German Paint and Brush Manufacturers Association also benefits from the expertise of RecycleMe and receives the information provided.
Member companies receive in-depth expertise and a comprehensive overview
The tool industry is also subject to various national and international legislations in the field of circular economy and extended producer responsibility (EPR). In particular, manufacturers and their distributors in various European countries are subject to binding regulations and requirements with regard to sales and transport packaging. Complying with these and applying them to your own portfolio in the best possible way will give you a decisive competitive advantage – not least because violations can be punished with fines or distribution bans.
‘Whether it’s mandatory labelling, recyclability of packaging, the obligation to provide evidence of the quantities placed on the market or the quotas for the use of recycled materials – the requirements for companies that place packaging on the market are numerous and complex,’ summarises Barbara Krauss, Circularity Manager at RecycleMe. ‘Our aim is to provide companies with a comprehensive overview and in-depth know-how. We also provide support and assistance during implementation until the individual goals are achieved.’
Reclay, a sister company of RecycleMe, is also a member of FWI. Reclay has been operating as a dual system in Germany for over 20 years and runs many other take-back systems in Europe and North America.
The circular economy concept is also a prerequisite in the tool industry.
‘As a trade association, we want to offer our members the widest possible range of services,’ explains Thomas Holland-Letz, Deputy Managing Director of FWI. ‘On the one hand, this includes our role as a point of contact for the effective representation of our members’ business interests in the public and political arenas. On the other hand, however, it also includes access to information and research from our collective network, as well as a platform for the mutual exchange of experiences and best practice solutions – including in the increasingly important field of packaging.’
For Holland-Letz, it is a matter of course that the idea of a circular economy has long been part of everyday life in the tool industry. ‘The signs of the times are obvious for all industries. As a tool industry, we want to set a good example in this regard. That’s why we are pleased to have real experts in this field in our network, with partners like RecycleMe. Our member companies and our entire industry benefit from this expertise.’
