Flat Lay (Top view) of smartphone components isolate on white background with clipping path
Project overview
Transnational Network of Circular Labs for EEE
The environmental impact of electronics manufacturing is not just limited to waste creation but also raises concerns about air pollution, water and soil contamination in production processes. To overcome this, the CIRCOTRONIC project brings together scientists, entrepreneurs, and policy makers from nine manufacturing regions in a transnational network of regional circular labs. Together, they develop solutions for more circular value chains and design a policy framework for circular production.
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2,38m €
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Project Budget
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80%
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of the Budget is funded by ERDF
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6
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Countries
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9
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Regions
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12
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Partners
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5
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Pilots
Duration
Start date
End date
Project progress
Project partnership
Project partners
Lead partner
Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia
Project partner
DG Knowledge, Labour and Enterprise Economy Research, Innovation, Energy and Sustainable Economy Unit
Address
Viale Aldo Moro 44 40127 Bologna
Country
Italy (IT) Web
https://www.regione.emilia-romagna.it/
Total partner budget
272,400 €
SME Advisory Services
Total partner budget
231,000 €
Total partner budget
196,000 €
Cluster and Networks
Total partner budget
250,005 €
Total partner budget
216,850 €
Total partner budget
173,800 €
Total partner budget
196,500 €
Institute of Engineering Design and Product Development
Total partner budget
240,800 €
Total partner budget
149,800 €
Total partner budget
56,000 €
Total partner budget
70,000 €
Roadmap
1
Context
We are co-operating with entities from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE).
2
Specific problem
The manufacturing of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) is rapidly increasing. The sector has severe negative environmental and climate impacts arising from materials use, emission of air pollutants & greenhouse gases, chemicals use and waste. Additionally increasing consumption and production of EEE makes its complex and challenging waste stream one of the fastest growing ones.
3
Idea
We are cooperating for two main reasons. Firstly to foster sustainable growth by transforming EEE manufacturing in Central Europe towards circular and resource - efficient processes, value chains, products and services. Secondly to design a policy framework and implement circular economy policy measures supporting circular EEE manufacturing and the e-waste as a resource.
4
Solution
We are going to create network of circular Labs, taking up solutions that were jointly developed and tested for improved circularity in EEE manufacturing SMEs covering the themes: 1. Materials 2. Design 3. Business Models.
5
Implementation
Our consortium will prepare transnational action plan with policy recommendation to Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP 2020) and support partners in EEE manufacturing and the E-waste management.
News
Events
Pilot actions
Outputs
Testing tools and services to support the circular transformation of EEE manufacturing SMEs
We have curated 15 tools: 5 for design, 5 for materials, and 5 for business models, all based on scientific research and expert experience. These tools can be used individually or together to improve specific areas of your business, supporting the transition to circular practices where they are needed most. All tools will be tested with over 180 SMEs from Central Europe. Join pilot actions such us workshops and individual meetings to reduce waste, enhance resource efficiency, foster competitive advantage and build companies resilience for the future.
Type of output: Strategies and action plans
In development
Enhancing Circularity: New Solutions in Design, Materials and Circular Business Models for Central Europe
All 15 tools to be tested with EEE manufacturing SMEs will uncover the know-how at the transnational level and highlight necessary improvements. These solutions are based on the experiences and refinements identified during the piloting phase. Once proven successful in a transnational context, they will be incorporated into the portfolios of stakeholders across Central Europe. With three sets of solutions targeted for delivery, CIRCOTRONIC is poised to significantly enhance circular practices in the EEE manufacturing sector.
Type of output: Solutions
In development
9 regional labs serve as Transnational Circular Network for supporting the transition to circular practices
The project is pioneering the establishment of regional circular labs across various locations. These labs will serve as innovation hubs, supporting SMEs and other stakeholders in adopting circular business models and sustainable practices. Partners will either create new virtual labs or integrate them into existing physical infrastructures. These spaces will host workshops, training sessions, tools testing, and provide ongoing consultation and support. The regional labs, establish Transnational Network that will connect SMES needs with European capabilities.
Type of output: Strategies and action plans
In development
Unified Effort for Circular Solutions: Partner Agreement for Transnational Cooperation
Based on a process of reflecting on tool implementations and envisioning cooperation within the Transnational Circular Network, the partners commit to adopt the jointly developed solutions. An agreement will be signed outlining this commitment and specifying areas of collaboration, such as knowledge exchange, joint capacity-building activities, events, mutual signposting and referrals, joint client services, and initiating B2B collaborations.
Type of output: Solutions
In development
Transnational strategic action plan for the implementation of the CEAP 2020 in the field of EEE manufacturing & E-waste
Consortium will design a transnational strategic action plan for implementing EU Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP 2020) in Central Europe. This document will outline short-term and medium-term actions required to achieve a sustainable future. It will focus on fostering circular business models and promoting sustainable practices across the electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) manufacturing sector.
Type of output: Solutions
Project documents
EEE Stories from project partners around online and offline tools and initiatives
Stories from Slovakia_part 1
Share what you no longer need and find what truly serves you. Borrow equipment instead of buying new for your next green adventure. Choose to repair, share, and recycle whenever possible. By treating e-waste as a resource, we help extend the life of materials and reduce our environmental footprint. Check Kolo products. Join workshops in Goethe Institute Library in Bratislava or visit Re-use Center in Kosice.
Stories from Slovakia_part 2
Cyrkl Waste Marketplace, the INCIEN roadmap for waste management and circular economy, the Slovak Plastic Cluster, and the UNIVNET Association all contribute to building a more sustainable future. By connecting businesses, researchers, and communities, they support better waste practices and foster innovation across industries committed to circular solutions.
Stories from Poland_part 1
Recycling old electronics helps recover valuable materials, reducing environmental impact. Choosing a waste-free lifestyle promotes responsible consumption and sustainable businesses. Designing eco-friendly products fosters long-term positive change. Small, conscious decisions from individuals and organizations contribute to a balanced relationship between people, technology, and nature. Join Eco Profit and DTB Sustainability Summit.
Stories from Poland_part 2
Learning about responsible e-waste management helps us better understand the impact of discarded electronics on our environment. By educating ourselves and sharing knowledge with others, we can support proper recycling practices, reduce harm, and recover valuable resources. Small steps in awareness lead to more sustainable habits and choices. Look for Ekopaka.org and Electro3000 on social media.
Stories from Italy_part 1
Master the principles of circular economy and e-waste recycling by fixing broken items with expert guidance for example in Repair Café, buying refurbished electronics in XERA Green Tech Station and giving unwanted items a second life through reuse and repair in the Re-use Centre Daccapo.
Stories from Italy_part 2
Master the principles of circular economy and responsible e-waste recycling by empowering students and schools to take the lead in e-waste awareness, as seen in initiatives like ERION WEEE and Hera. Discover impactful campaigns and educational materials for proper disposal through platforms like RAEEGen. Get creative by designing posters and organizing events to further spread awareness. Access scholarships and training opportunities to deepen your expertise in sustainable practices. Additionally, explore podcasts and follow social media influencers such as DireFareRAEE who are helping to amplify the importance of responsible e-waste management and encourage wider participation in the circular economy.
Stories from Germany_part 1
Rethink consumption with FreeWilly, join a community dedicated to a waste-free future through Circular Munich's open community, and turn old electronics into a fun challenge with the E-waste Race to win prizes. These initiatives inspire action, promote sustainable habits, and encourage a shift toward responsible consumption and recycling.
Stories from Germany_part 2
Donate or pick up second-hand electronics for free with Enlarger Verschenk Börse platform, learn responsible e-waste recycling practices through Plan E, and access free digital learning tools for e-waste recycling at www.e-schrott-entsorgen.org/kampagne.html. These initiatives foster sustainable habits, promote proper recycling, and empower individuals and communities to actively contribute to a circular economy.
Stories from Austria_part 1
Explore hands-on school kits to learn about circularity in electronics and how it impacts waste management. Join experts in shaping better strategies for responsible e-waste recycling and sustainable consumption. Platforms like eak-austria.at offer valuable insights and opportunities to engage in the ongoing effort to reduce e-waste and promote sustainability.
Stories from Austria_part 2
Get informed about e-waste and battery recycling with Elektro-Ade platform and learn how to properly dispose of e-waste through Hermitler. Discover Austria’s innovative e-waste solutions at rundgehts.at. These resources offer practical guidance for managing electronic waste responsibly and supporting a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
Stories from Slovenia_part 1
Borrow tools and appliances instead of buying them through Knjiznicareci.si and give second-hand items a new purpose by visiting reuse centers like cpu.-reuse.com. Learn to upcycle and repair everyday objects with hands-on workshops offered by Knof Social Enterprise, promoting a more sustainable and resourceful lifestyle.
Stories from Slovenia_part 2
Learn how to properly dispose of electronics with Zeos.si and visit reuse centers like Cpu-reuse.com to give items a second life. Repair devices with free manuals and DIY guides from ifixit.com/, join upcycling workshops at Knof.si/, and get involved in the sustainability movement through Ebm.si.
CIRCOTRONIC
The project lead partner is responsible for the content of this project website.
Project on social media
Project Contacts
Communication Manager
Magdalena Malachowska
Phone: 0048 608 405 640