
© Stadt Bocholt
Andreas Euting (from left) from the Bocholt cemetery administration inspects one of the new machines together with David Höckel, Marlies Knuf (group leader) and Joel Deckers from Bürgern-Technik.New grave light dispensers at Bocholt cemetery
Sustainability award winner Büngern-Technik sells recyclable grave lights // Two vending machines in operation
There are now two new vending machines at Bocholt cemetery where recyclable grave lights can be purchased. The lights "Cera Lights" are produced by Büngern-Technik, a workshop for people with disabilities. The grave light vending machines are now in operation at over 20 locations.
In Bocholt, the vending machines are located at the main entrance to the cemetery and at the side entrance "In der Ziegelheide". The grave candles cost 3 euros for the initial purchase, or 3.50 euros with a lid, and can then be refilled as often as required for 2 euros. The machines are equipped with a stainless steel waste container in which the remaining wax from the burnt-out grave candles can be disposed of - this residue is also recycled.
Sustainability award for Büngern technology
The machines themselves work purely mechanically, so no power supply is required. The grave lights are made from biodegradable and ecological rapeseed wax, the candles burn for up to 50 hours and are also low in soot. The glass containers also mean that plastic waste can be avoided.
On 8 October 2024, Büngern-Technik was awarded the Bocholt Sustainability Prize by the city of Bocholt for its development of the "Cera Lights". This not only recognised their achievements in the area of climate protection, but also their social commitment.