IF CEED unveils results of its ‘Starter Projects’ for circularity in defence

Held in Luxembourg from 6 to 8 October 2026 with the support of Luxembourg’s Directorate of Defence and the European Commission, the conference brought together more than 140 participants from 23 countries.  

“Circularity by design and data for circularity are the way forward. Platforms built on these principles are more cost-efficient, more adaptable, and, above all, more sovereign,” said Yuriko Backes, Luxembourg’s Minister for Defence. “In a world where supply chains are weaponised, this is how we take back control.”  

Backes also underscored EDA’s role, saying the Agency was an “indispensable partner” by bridging the private and public sector in green defence efforts. 

EDA Chief Executive André Denk told participants that IF CEED aims to “contribute directly to Europe’s defence and deliver tangible results for our armed forces.”  

The Starter Projects range from recycling defence-grade materials such as titanium and nickel to field-adapted quality control and environmental management in support of military operations. 

They illustrate the relevance of circularity for defence. Reusing and recycling materials and components available within the EU makes supply chains more resilient, while optimising material and energy use reduces equipment downtime and improves operational efficiency. 

To turn these results into practice, IF CEED's new short-term actions include guidelines for defence ministries and training modules on green procurement. The Forum will also build on benefits stemming from initiatives such as the European Circular Economy Stakeholder Platform, represented at the conference by Corina Murafa, Member of the European Economic and Social Committee.  

Participants also discussed new project ideas to address gaps in critical raw materials, textiles, additive manufacturing and post-conflict environmental remediation. 

Since October 2021, the European Defence Agency (EDA) has managed the Incubation Forum for Circular Economy in European Defence (IF CEED), a collaborative initiative applying EU Green Deal principles to the defence sector. It brings together defence ministries, industry, research and technology organisations (RTOs), financial institutions and academia to foster circular solutions that support both military capability and environmental goals. Now in its second phase (2023–2027), the Forum focuses on developing and implementing cross-border projects, promoting innovation and sustainable practices, and reducing the defence sector’s environmental footprint.