A Circular Economy with Vision and Responsibility
Project Profile
Client: Kärcher
Industry: Cleaning Systems
Location/Region: Austria
Timeframe: Since 2023
Services: Site assessment, documentation of waste streams, development of a recycling concept, integration with the customer portal
The Challenge: A centralized solution for Austria
Kärcher sets the highest standards for safety and efficiency—including when it comes to the recycling of industrial recyclables and waste materials. In the past, these were collected and processed at Kärcher Austria by eight different waste management and recycling companies. The goal was to establish a centralized, transparent solution that complies with relevant legal requirements—one that is cost-effective, traceable, and available nationwide.
The Solution: From Analysis to a Systemic Circular Economy
In collaboration with Saubermacher, a comprehensive site survey was first conducted. Existing waste fractions, containers, and collection intervals were documented. Based on this, a centralized management system was developed with a unified database and a clear overall overview. The focus was on developing a comprehensive concept for the recycling of all material streams—from packaging and cleaning chemicals to oil-containing operating materials. The new solution enables structured, location-independent implementation that balances operational safety, transparency, and environmental impact.
smart solutions
Saubermacher also uses smart waste compactors. These automatically notify the company when a container is full. Pickup is triggered automatically. The entire process runs in the background without the customer having to do anything.
The result: Digital solutions for efficient resource management
Since then, Saubermacher—thanks in part to its strong partner network—has been serving all locations in Vienna, Lower Austria, Upper Austria, Salzburg, and Tyrol with standardized processes, clearly defined pickup intervals, and customized containers. In addition, all Kärcher Centers have been integrated into the Saubermacher customer portal. This portal provides a digital overview of all relevant data: from waste stream trends to container inventory and transport records.
In addition, Saubermacher provides checklists and up-to-date certificates to support documented processes and transparent communication with regulatory authorities. In this context, security means not only legal compliance but also reliability in implementation: Every pickup can be scheduled, every location has a designated contact person, and every measure is documented in an audit-proof manner. All billing data is available digitally, and potential cost savings are also highlighted.
In addition to operational support, the company’s knowledge of the circular economy is strengthened—thanks to a waste sorting training program focused on proper separation, economic savings potential, and environmental responsibility. The solution combines standardized processes with an overview of material flows and documentation.
Years of successful collaboration
Kärcher Center serves
Centralized waste management solution
Summary
The highest standards for safety and efficiency made it necessary to develop a centralized and legally compliant waste disposal solution.
Development of a comprehensive, structured repatriation plan that can be applied regardless of location.
Standardized processes, clearly defined pickup intervals, and access to the customer portal ensure smooth operations at all locations.
Trust That Pays Off
Managing Director of Kärcher Austria
Trust That Pays Off
»The partnership between Kärcher Austria and Saubermacher stands for reliability, structure, and a circular economy in action—with the goal of making safety a tangible part of daily operations.«
Claudia Supan, Solution Managerin
Kärcher placed its trust in us and gave us insight into its existing structures. This enabled us to develop a viable solution and take forward-looking steps together.
