Re-use of recovered materials is to be understood as a strategy concerning resource protection. Thanks to recovery measures that have this goal - preparation for re-use - materials that were once defined as waste can carry out their original function, so that in principle, less resources must be utilized for the development
of new products. At least theoretically, it would be possible to combine sustainable development and economic growth. Owing to this potential, re-use and preparation for re-use are granted a high position in the waste hierarchy. Nevertheless, reality shows that the possibilities for its implementation are rather humble. This paper analyses the reasons for and consequences of this phenomenon