Climate -friendly electronics: TU Chemnitz starts pioneering project!
Climate -friendly electronics: TU Chemnitz starts pioneering project!
The growing demand for electronic devices leads to a worrying increase in electronic waste, which heavily burdens both the environment and social resources. A new initiative of the Technical University of Chemnitz, in the DFG Excellence Cluster "responsible electronics in the age of climate change" (REC2), aims to counteract these challenges through innovative research approaches. Prof. Dr. Marlen Arnold and Prof. Dr. Michael Sommer represent the team and are committed to a paradigm shift in electronics design.
The Excellence Cluster, led by Prof. Dr. Yana Vaynzof, is officially founded in 2026 and in particular pursues the goal of reducing electronic waste. A special focus on the principles of circular economy is placed in the focus.
goals and principles of the Cluster of Excellence
There are six research lines that deal with the development of new material platforms and innovative component concepts. Prof. Arnold is the co-director of the research direction, which deals with short-lived electronics that can be reduced in a controlled manner. The development of a material library for circular electronics is a central concern. This is supported by a comprehensive sustainability assessment over the entire life cycle of the products.
Prof. Sommer, on the other hand, focuses on taking into account the degradation and recycling when it comes to the molecular designation of new materials. One of the challenges is to find the balance between the stability and performance of the materials and their controlled degradation. A strategy of the cluster is the creation of "material passports" that will help select suitable materials.
circular economy in the electronics industry
The principles of the circular economy aim to keep resources in the economic cycle and minimize waste. Electronic devices contain valuable materials such as gold, silver and copper, the reuse of which can be promoted by recycling technologies. The initiative aims to extend the life cycles of these products and significantly reduce the ecological footprint. By encouraging companies to design durable and repairable products, not only reduces environmental pollution, but also created new economic opportunities.
However, the challenges are diverse. There is a high need for technological solutions and sustainable design when it comes to minimizing electronic waste. Questions about economic barriers and unclear regulatory standards that can affect the circular economy are of great relevance. An example of functioning sustainability is the Circular Electronics Initiative that stimulates cooperation and promotes sustainable practices.
international approaches to the circular economy
German development cooperation plays an important role in supporting partner countries, especially with regard to the management of electronic waste. Measures include advice on the development and implementation of laws on waste management. Particularly noteworthy is the cooperation with the Ghanaian government to promote sustainable and socially responsible system for electrical and electronic equipment.
These initiatives aim to improve the technical capacities of recycling companies and to promote the dialogue between different actors - from manufacturers to collectors to recyclers. Measures such as pilot projects within the Prevent Waste Alliance are intended to develop solutions for problematic electronic waste.
In summary, it can be seen that the circular economy is a promising approach to counter the challenges of the growing electronic rott and lack of resources. While innovative projects such as the DFG Excellence Cluster REC2 are important steps in the right direction, the complex problems of the electronics industry require a powerful interaction of research, industry and political support.Details | |
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Ort | Chemnitz, Deutschland |
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