In June 2026, Circuit4EU launched an EU project that turns end-of-life electrical appliances into new sources of raw materials for Europe. This means that critical raw materials can be recovered from laptops, Wi-Fi routers, e-scooters and dishwashers.
Digital technologies for a circular electronics industry
The goal is to generally make recycling more efficient and increase the supply of secondary raw materials within Europe. Circuit4EU focuses on critical raw materials such as cobalt, nickel, copper, and rare earth elements. To improve recovery rates, the project is developing innovative technologies including:
- Robotic disassembly of electronic devices
- Automated component separation
- Advanced material recovery processes
- Digital product passports
- AI-supported quality control
This “Horizon Europe” project, coordinated by Arts et Métiers, brings together 21 partners from nine countries. By the end of 2029, ten technologies are to be developed to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7. A key objective is to better connect recyclers, refurbishers, and producers through digital tools. In the future, companies could use digital product information to identify valuable materials and reusable components more easily. As demand for critical raw materials continues to grow, initiatives such as Circuit4EU could help create a more sustainable and competitive European electronics industry.
VERE e.V. is in contact with all relevant stakeholders and keeps its members informed of further developments via the “VERE Insider”.
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