Increasing circularity in electronics production

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.

2,38m €: Project Budget
80%: of the Budget is funded by ERDF
6: Countries
9: Regions
12: Partners
5: Pilots

Duration

Start date 03.2023

End date 02.2026

Project progress

90%

Project partnership

Project partners

Lead partner

Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia

Address

Dimičeva ulica 13
1000 Ljubljana

Country

Slovenia (SI)

Web

https://www.gzs.si/

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

Address

Prinzregentenstr. 52
80538 Munich

Country

Germany (DE)

Web

www.bayfor.org

Total partner budget

231,000 €

Address

Letna 9
04200 Košice

Country

Slovakia (SK)

Web

www.tuke.sk

Total partner budget

196,000 €

Cluster and Networks

Address

Hafenstrasse 47-51
4020 Linz

Country

Austria (AT)

Web

https://www.biz-up.at/

Total partner budget

250,005 €

Address

Piazza delle Istituzioni 34/A
31100 Treviso

Country

Italy (IT)

Web

www.t2i.it

Total partner budget

216,850 €

Address

Bandurskiego 96/23
71-685 Szczecin

Country

Poland (PL)

Web

www.mediadizajn.pl

Total partner budget

173,800 €

Address

Kidričeva cesta 25
3000 Celje

Country

Slovenia (SI)

Web

www.tecos.si

Total partner budget

196,500 €

Institute of Engineering Design and Product Development

Address

Lehargasse 6
1060 Vienna

Country

Austria (AT)

Web

https://www.tuwien.at/

Total partner budget

240,800 €

Address

Strojárenská 3
040 01 040 01

Country

Slovakia (SK)

Web

www.arr.sk

Total partner budget

149,800 €

Address

Ul. Gdańska 36
70-660 Szczecin

Country

Poland (PL)

Web

https://www.elektrykamorska.pl/

Total partner budget

56,000 €

Address

Ulica Antona Tomšiča 35
1294 Višnja Gora

Country

Slovenia (SI)

Web

https://elvez.si/

Total partner budget

70,000 €

Roadmap

Context

We are co-operating with entities from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE).

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.

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.

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.

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

P2 Green

NEWS

16.10.2025

The Hidden Cost of Electrical Connectivity

In a world powered by constant connection, the hidden cost of electrical connectivity emerges as technostress — a silent strain on our minds and bodies. Continuous updates, endless notifications, and blurred boundaries between work and rest erode focus, well-being, and autonomy, reminding us that true balance begins with conscious disconnection.

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

NEWS

08.09.2025

TU Wien at LCM 2025: Presenting Circular Solutions for E-Powertrains in Electric Trucks

TU Wien will present the Circularity Assessment Tool at LCM 2025 in Palermo, showcasing its application to heavy vehicle powertrains. Using the Circularity Assessment Tool and its application to an electrical powertrain for heavy vehicles.

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

NEWS

22.08.2025

Two Worlds Meet – Elektryka Morska in the CIRCOTRONIC Project

The CIRCOTRONIC project introduced Elektryka Morska to the Circularity Assessment Tool, which became a catalyst for reflection on device life cycles. This tool highlighted opportunities beyond material substitution, inspiring our own R&D initiative to extend the durability of ship batteries and frequency converters within strict maritime safety regulations.

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

NEWS

30.07.2025

Your Guide to Circular Data Sharing Is Finally Out!

Ten Nordic collaborations took part in 12 interactive sessions focused on building capacity and exchanging knowledge. Participants explored how secure, transparent data sharing can enhance resource efficiency, extend product lifecycles, and enable circular business models. Key insights and methods were compiled into a practical playbook to support wider adoption ...

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

NEWS

26.06.2025

‘Suddenly I knew that what we were doing made sense.’

Interview with Ján Baláž about what the CIRCOTRONIC project has brought him How can we look at electromobility differently? We talked to Ján Baláž, representative of AgeVolt Slovakia s.r.o., who was testing circular economy tools. And he openly told us what the project gave him - and in what ways.

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

NEWS

11.06.2025

EU Green Week 2025

Together with other Interreg initiatives, CIRCOTRONIC is shaping a new narrative for the economy – one where nothing goes to waste and every part of the system operates in a loop. Central Europe is proving that the future can be circular – and it starts here and now. Just ...

By CIRCOTRONIC

Canva

P2 Green

NEWS

05.06.2025

CIRCULAR NET-LAB: A European Alliance for Circular Innovation in Electronics

The CIRCULAR NET-LAB is a cross-border alliance of 12 organizations from six Central European countries, working to accelerate the circular transformation of the Electrical and Electronic Equipment sector. Through regional labs, it fosters innovation, collaboration, and regenerative solutions to support businesses and stakeholders in building a circular economy. Click in ...

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

NEWS

04.06.2025

UNPLUGGED

Unplugged is a virtual exhibition that explores our constant dependence on electricity and the EEE sector. Through future scenarios, it invites reflection on energy use, our relationship with technology, and the need for balance. It sparks imagination and offers insights into sustainable solutions for an energy-conscious future. Click in New ...

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

NEWS

29.05.2025

TECOS: Smart Hydration Reminder as an Example of Circular Innovation

TECOS and ULLA Labs developed a smart hydration reminder using 100% recycled materials, showcasing circular innovation in product design. Through advanced engineering and collaboration, they demonstrated how sustainable materials can replace virgin plastics, offering a scalable model for eco-friendly production in the electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) sector.

By CIRCOTRONIC

Events

P2 Green

EVENT

Italy

In Person

05.11.2025

Accelerating circularity in the Electrical and Electronic Equipment Sector

This event brings together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore strategies and innovations driving the transition towards circularity in the Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) sector. Kicking off with insights from the CIRCOTRONIC Interreg project, the program focuses on how we can rethink electronics through circular design, sustainable materials, ...

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

EVENT

Italy

01.09 - 31.12.2025

UNPLUGGED IN ITALY

Unplugged è una mostra di sensibilizzazione sul settore delle AEE (apparecchiature elettriche ed elettroniche). Esplora la ricerca di soluzioni a questioni legate al futuro, stimolando l'immaginazione nel nostro rapporto con i dispositivi elettronici e fornendo suggerimenti su come bilanciare l'energia.

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

EVENT

Slovenia

01.07 - 31.08.2025

UNPLUGGED IN SLOVENIA

Unplugged se osredotoča na sektor EEO (električne in elektronske opreme). Razstava raziskuje rešitve za prihodnost ter izziva našo domišljijo glede odnosa do elektronskih naprav. Predstavlja poti, kako lahko dosežemo uravnoteženo razmerje do porabe energije.

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

EVENT

Germany

In Person

01.01 - 31.05.2025

UNPLUGGED IN GERMANY

In einer Welt, in der wir 24 Stunden am Tag, 365 Tage im Jahr an Strom angeschlossen sind, will diese Ausstellung uns daran erinnern, wie viel Energie wir wirklich zum Leben benötigen. Wie die Natur im Winter zur Ruhe kommt und der Mensch im Schlaf, so soll auch „Unplugged“ ...

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

EVENT

Austria

In Person

01.09 - 31.12.2024

UNPLUGGED IN AUSTRIA

Wir sind 24 Stunden am Tag, 365 Tage im Jahr an den Strom angeschlossen. Und so wie die Natur im Winter ruht und der Mensch im Schlaf, dient die Ausstellung als Anregung zum Nachdenken darüber, wie viel Energie wir zum Leben brauchen.

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

EVENT

Slovakia

In Person

01.05 - 31.08.2024

UNPLUGGED IN SLOVAKIA

Sme spojení s elektrickou energiou nepretržite, 24 hodín denne, 365 dní v roku. Ako príroda v zime odpočíva a ľudia v spánku, táto výstava nás inšpiruje k zamysleniu sa nad tým, aké množstvo energie potrebujeme na naše každodenné fungovanie.

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

EVENT

Poland

In Person

01.02 - 30.04.2024

UNPLUGGED IN POLAND

Jesteśmy podłączeni do prądu 24 godziny, 7 dni w tygodniu, 365 dni w roku. Ponieważ przyroda odpoczywa zimą, a człowiek śniąc nocą, wystawa UNPLUGGED jest impulsem do refleksji nad tym, ile energii potrzebujemy, by żyć.

By CIRCOTRONIC

P2 Green

EVENT

Poland

In Person

17.01.2024

UNPLUGGED

The exhibition addresses the question of how to find more capacity within us, to solve problems related to the future. It stimulates imagination about our relationship with electronic devices and provides an answer on how to balance energy after interacting with them

By CIRCOTRONIC

Pilot actions

Outputs

Solutions taken up or scaled-up fostering the circular transition of EEE manufacturing SMEs

With three sets of solutions in the field of design, materials and business models, targeted for delivery, CIRCOTRONIC is poised to significantly enhance circular practices in the EEE manufacturing sector. Solutions will be tested with over 180 SMEs from Central Europe to enhance resource efficiency, foster competitive advantage and build companies resilience for the future.

Type of output: Solutions

In development

Uptake of regional labs and transnational network by project partners

The partners commit to adopt the jointly developed solutions by building Transnational Circular Network. An agreement outline this commitment and specify 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 in Central Europe

Consortium designed a transnational strategic action plan for implementing EU Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP 2020) in Central Europe. This document outline short-term and medium-term actions required to achieve a sustainable future. It focuses on fostering circular business models and promoting sustainable practices across the electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) manufacturing sector.

Type of output: Strategies and action plans

Circular EEE Sector for a Sustainable Future Transnational Strategic Action Plan to Implement the CEAP 2020 in Central Europe

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 Contacts

Project Manager

Grit Ackermann

Email: grit.ackermann@gzs.si

Phone: 0038615898418

Finance Manager

Urška Spitzer

Email: urska.spitzer@gzs.si

Phone: 0038615898129

Communication Manager

Magdalena Malachowska

Email: malachowska.magdalena@gmail.com

Phone: 0048 608 405 640

CIRCOTRONIC

Project overview

Transnational Network of Circular Labs for EEE

2,38m €

80%

6

9

12

5

Duration

Project progress

Project partnership

Project partners

Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia

Emilia-Romagna Region

DG Knowledge, Labour and Enterprise Economy Research, Innovation, Energy and Sustainable Economy Unit

Bavarian Research Alliance

SME Advisory Services

Technical University of Kosice

Business Upper Austria – Upper Austrian business agency Ldt

Cluster and Networks

t2i – Technology transfer and innovation

Association Media Dizajn

Slovenian Tool and Die Development Centre

Vienna University of Technology

Institute of Engineering Design and Product Development

The Agency for the Support of Regional Development Košice

Elektryka Morska Sp. z o.o.

ELVEZ, Manufacture of cable harnesses and processing of plastic, d.o.o.

Roadmap

Context

Specific problem

Idea

Solution

Implementation

News

The Hidden Cost of Electrical Connectivity

TU Wien at LCM 2025: Presenting Circular Solutions for E-Powertrains in Electric Trucks

Two Worlds Meet – Elektryka Morska in the CIRCOTRONIC Project

Your Guide to Circular Data Sharing Is Finally Out!

‘Suddenly I knew that what we were doing made sense.’

EU Green Week 2025

CIRCULAR NET-LAB: A European Alliance for Circular Innovation in Electronics

UNPLUGGED

TECOS: Smart Hydration Reminder as an Example of Circular Innovation

Design SPRINT

Ecodesign – New Online Tool for Understanding Legislation in EEE

“Green” Communication: Talking About Climate

Circular economy best practice for WEEE, Waste Batteries and Packaging Waste: from policy development to industrial case studies

Designing sustainable solutions in Poland

Electrified at the “electronica” 2024: Take-aways from THE electronics trade fair in Munich

CIRCOTRONIC and Partnership with AfB Slovakia s.r.o. for Sustainable Business

Sustainable Manufacturing with 3D-printed Tools: TECOS’s Pilot Line Enhances Efficiency and Reduces Waste

Pragmatic Utopia: Rethinking the Electrical and Electronic Future

ECO-Design and Electro-Waste: Paving the Path to a Closed-Cycle Economy

Harnessing EU Policy and Consumer Power: Swappie’s Impact on Smartphone Sustainability

Your product is worth more than you think!

Boost Circularity in Your Company

Bringing Ideas into Action: Drafting a Transnational Action Plan

Be Here Now nomination to design award

Be Here Now

Co-creating Circular Labs

G7 countries top energy stories

Exhibition as a Tool for Discipline Development

Driving Change through Foresight

Reality check: Are consumers ready for circular EEE?

Embracing change: the evolution of circular economy in tomorrow’s world

Innovative Approach to Reducing E-Waste in Batteries and Frequency Converters

Elektryka Morska’s Expansion in the Martime Industry

Circular Economy, E-waste

Breathing Secondary Life into Waste, case study by ELVEZ

Beyond the Now: Foresight Initiatives for Small Businesses

How can we unlock the future?

A new treatment for burning pain

Events

Accelerating circularity in the Electrical and Electronic Equipment Sector

UNPLUGGED IN ITALY

UNPLUGGED IN SLOVENIA

UNPLUGGED IN GERMANY

UNPLUGGED IN AUSTRIA