Boosting the Remanufacturing Industry: The Advantages of DIN SPEC 91472:2023-06

Introduction
In an era of resource security of supply concerns and environmental consciousness, the remanufacturing industry has emerged as a key player in sustainable manufacturing practices. Additionally, remanufacturing is considered a central pillar of the circular economy. At Oakdene Holins, we have been working in the remanufacturing industry for twenty years such as within our work at the Conseil Européen de Remanufacture and projects such as the _Remanufacturing Working Group. Throughout the years, we have echoed the need for standardisation of remanufacturing terminology to support the industry in classifying remanufactured products as separate from reuse, refurbished or waste.

Recognising the potential for growth and impact, Germany has recently introduced a new remanufacturing standard, DIN SPEC 91472:2023-06. This standard marks a significant milestone in streamlining processes, improving quality, and fostering innovation within the remanufacturing sector. Within this standard, they define remanufacturing as’ being a ‘standardised value-retention process in which a remanufactured product with are least the functionality and performance of the original product is created from restored components of one or more used parts as well as new components’. A remanufactured product is considered as a new product and comes with a commercial extended warranty, see draft Ecodesign Regulation of March 2022'. In this article, we will explore the key benefits of DIN SPEC 91472:2023-06 to the remanufacturing industry.

Enhancing Efficiency and Quality
One of the primary advantages of DIN SPEC 91472:2023-06 is its ability to enhance efficiency and standardisation within the remanufacturing process. The standard provides guidelines for disassembly, cleaning, testing, repair, and reassembly of products, establishing consistent methodologies to ensure optimal performance and quality control. By aligning practices across the industry, manufacturers can reduce costs, improve productivity, and deliver products that meet or exceed customer expectations.

Promoting Sustainability and Circularity
The new German remanufacturing standard also emphasises the importance of sustainability and circularity. DIN SPEC 91472:2023-06 encourages businesses to focus on reducing waste, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions associated with manufacturing and to prioritise value retention. Through remanufacturing, products are given a new lease on life, reducing the need for raw materials and minimising the environmental impact of production. By complying with this standard, manufacturers can contribute to a more circular economy, preserving resources and reducing waste.

Facilitating Innovation and Design
Another key benefit of DIN SPEC 91472:2023-06 is its potential to foster innovation within the remanufacturing sector within products, services and business models. The standard encourages manufacturers to incorporate design considerations for improved end-of-life recyclability and remanufacturability as well as for them to explore new innovative business models. By implementing sustainable design principles, businesses can develop products that are easier to disassemble, repair, and upgrade. This not only supports the circular economy but also drives innovation in product design, opening up new opportunities for business growth and market differentiation.

Supporting Businesses in Remanufacturing
To support businesses in embracing remanufacturing practices and complying with DIN SPEC 91472:2023-06 and other such standards that may develop, there are four potential strategies:

1. Education and Training: Promote training programs and workshops to educate businesses about the benefits and implementation of remanufacturing practices and the implications of the new standard. This can include disseminating information about the new remanufacturing standard, providing specialised training, and sharing best practices from successful remanufacturing companies.

2. Financial Incentives: Offer financial incentives, tax breaks, or grants to businesses that invest in remanufacturing infrastructure and equipment. These incentives can help offset the initial costs associated with adopting new remanufacturing processes and technologies in line with the standard.

3. Collaboration and Networking: Encourage collaboration between remanufacturers, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and other stakeholders. Facilitating networking events, industry conferences, and knowledge-sharing platforms can foster partnerships and enable cross-sectoral learning, leading to more robust and resilient remanufacturing ecosystems.

4. Research and Development: Allocate resources to research and development efforts focused on improving remanufacturing processes, materials, and technology. This will support the development of innovative solutions and ensure that the remanufacturing industry continues to evolve and thrive.

Conclusion
DIN SPEC 91472:2023-06 represents a significant step forward for the remanufacturing industry in Germany. By establishing a standardised framework, the new standard enhances the potential for value retention, promotes sustainability and circularity, and encourages innovation. To support businesses in adopting remanufacturing practices, education, financial incentives, collaboration, and research and development efforts should be prioritied. Embracing remanufacturing not only benefits the environment but also offers economic advantages for businesses. As stakeholders come together to support this transition, the remanufacturing industry will play a crucial role in paving the way for a more circular future.