OTWorld becomes a real-world laboratory for the circular economy
Sustainability meets innovation: OTWorld 2026 will be part of the KRIDEM research project. Together with Leipziger Messe, a forward-looking model for a sustainable trade show industry is being created.
OTWorld 2026: a stage for the circular economy
OTWorld, the world's leading event for modern orthopaedic treatment and care, will not only shine in terms of expertise in 2026 – it will also take on a pioneering role in sustainability. As a practical example in the KRIDEM (‘Circular Economy in the Trade Show Industry’) research project, it will serve as a real-world laboratory for new ways of dealing with resources.
Leipzig Trade Show is an official partner in the project.
The aim is to analyse material, energy, water and waste flows holistically and make them more sustainable. With its international reach and connection between skilled trades, industry and science, OTWorld offers ideal conditions for this approach.
Circular thinking instead of single-use
The focus is on the so-called Circular Scan. This involves examining all processes at the trade show – from stand construction to catering – in terms of their use of resources. What materials are used? Where does waste arise? And how can existing structures be made more circular?
‘We don't just want to tweak individual aspects, we want to look at our entire infrastructure through the lens of circularity,’ says Michel Ghattas-Kämpfner, Sustainability Manager at Leipziger Trade Show.
Nexus approach: recognising connections
KRIDEM also relies on the nexus approach, which reveals interactions between different resources. A change in water consumption, for example, can have an impact on energy requirements. This systemic view creates new synergies – a decisive step towards more sustainable trade fair formats.
Model for the sector
OTWorld as a research platform is creating a practical model that will benefit the entire trade fair sector. Antje Voigtmann, Project Director of OTWorld, emphasises: ‘We are proud to be part of KRIDEM – and thus to provide impetus for the transformation of our sector.’
OTWorld 2026 will take place from 19 to 22 May in Leipzig – and will celebrate its 50th anniversary. An ideal occasion to actively shape the future.
