On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the doctoral students of SFB 1683 hosted a New Year's reception for around 50 participants.

After a welcome by the spokesperson, Prof. Peter Mark, civil engineer Charlotte Bofinger gave an online presentation on circular construction entitled “Alles bleibt – machen wir das Beste draus.” Starting with the central question of how materials can be used as efficiently as possible to meet the needs of all people, she provided insights into the development of reuse practices in Switzerland. She showed how initial pilot projects over the past five years have developed into functioning, nationwide material cycles.

In the pub quiz that followed, participants were able to test their knowledge on topics related to the Ruhr area, Bochum, the RUB, and the Collaborative Research Center. The reception was a great opportunity for relaxed exchange and to get in the mood for the joint research year at SFB 1683.