Der Verbund
The Initiative for Natural Circular Economy e.V. (INAK) promotes the separate collection of organic waste in Germany. It advocates for compostable products, develops standards, and raises public awareness for sustainable resource use and circular economy.
About Initiative natürliche Kreislaufwirtschaft e.V. (INAK)
editThe Initiative natürliche Kreislaufwirtschaft e.V. (INAK), formerly known as Verbund kompostierbare Produkte e.V., is a registered association founded in September 2013 in Berlin. The association aims to promote the separate collection of organic waste in Germany and thus make a significant contribution to the circular economy.
Key Products and Services
editINAK focuses on promoting and disseminating compostable products, particularly organic waste bags made from compostable plastics or laminated paper. These bags facilitate the clean and convenient collection of organic waste and help increase the acceptance and volume of separate organic waste collection. By using these bags, the biogas yield from kitchen waste in anaerobic digestion plants can also be increased.
Another central element of INAK's work is the development and recommendation of a standardized design for organic waste bags in Germany. This design, marked by the "Keimling" logo (® European Bioplastics e.V.), facilitates the identification of the bags for both consumers and processing in composting or digestion facilities.
Mission and Values
editINAK's main mission is to strengthen the circular economy by promoting the separate collection and utilization of organic waste. The association advocates for sustainable resource use and supports the transition to environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional waste disposal methods. INAK places great importance on education and raising public awareness to sharpen the understanding of the benefits of the circular economy.
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editINAK is actively committed to implementing sustainable practices and promoting innovations in the field of organic waste utilization. The association works closely with local authorities, businesses, and other stakeholders to support the introduction and use of compostable products. A central goal is to significantly reduce the amount of organic waste that ends up in the residual waste bin and is incinerated. Since January 1, 2015, the separate collection of organic waste has been legally mandated in Germany, yet about a third of municipalities are still lagging behind. INAK is dedicated to closing this gap and promoting the widespread introduction of organic waste collection.
By promoting compostable products and supporting the circular economy, INAK contributes to reducing environmental impact and shaping a more sustainable future. The association sees itself as a pioneer in the development and implementation of solutions that are both ecologically and economically viable.