Photo: eurekalert.org
Europe's E-Waste: A Goldmine for Critical Raw Materials by 2050
Europes urban mine of electronic waste could see critical raw materials double by 2050, enhancing recycling efforts and reducing supply risks amid growing demand.
- By 2050, the critical raw material supply from Europes urban mine of electronic waste may double, significantly increasing the recovery of essential metals like palladium, copper, and aluminium.
- The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive aims to boost recycling initiatives across the European Union, promoting responsible disposal and recovery of valuable raw materials from e-waste.
- Enhanced recycling efforts can help Europe reduce its reliance on imported critical raw materials, insulating the region from geopolitical supply security risks and fostering job creation in the green economy.
Why It Matters
The expansion of recycling and recovery of critical raw materials from electronic waste in Europe not only addresses supply chain vulnerabilities but also supports environmental sustainability and economic growth in line with climate goals.