Revolutionary research: Chemnitz University of Technology fights against electronic waste!

Revolutionary research: Chemnitz University of Technology fights against electronic waste!

The increased demand for electronic devices has serious consequences: Electronic waste is increasing worldwide and poses a significant threat to the environment and resources. Against this background, research is being carried out at Chemnitz University of Technology and in the DFG Cluster of Excellence “Responsible Electronics in the Age of Climate Change” (REC2) in order to develop innovative solutions that enable the sustainable use of electronic products. The opening date of the cluster is planned for 2026, under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Yana Vaynzof from TU Dresden.

A central goal of the Cluster of Excellence is to reduce electronic waste and bring about a paradigm shift in electronics design. Six research lines are planned that are based on principles of the circular economy. These include new material platforms, innovative component concepts and integrated systems that promote the sustainability of electronics production.

Research and Development

The role of the main actors is significant. Prof. Dr. Marlen Arnold and Prof. Dr. Michael Sommer contribute their expertise in various areas. Prof. Arnold is co-leader of the research program, which focuses on short-lived electronics that can be degraded in a controlled manner. She has contributed to four of the five research lines, with a focus on distinguishing longevity, degradability and the development of a materials library for circular electronics.

Prof. Sommer focuses on two lines dedicated to the recycling and controlled degradability of materials. The focus here is on the challenge of striking a balance between stability and performance as well as degradability and recyclability. An important strategic element of the cluster are the “Material Passports”, which are intended to optimize the value of materials by passing on information.

Circular economy as a solution approach

The circular economy aims to keep resources in the economic cycle and minimize waste. Loud TechZeitgeist Valuable resources contained in electronic devices can be used sustainably through recycling, repair and reuse. There are three central principles of the circular economy to consider: waste avoidance through design, maximum reuse and circulation of resources, and the regeneration of natural systems.

These approaches are particularly important because the global increase in electronic waste is also accompanied by the shortage of valuable raw materials such as gold, silver and copper. In addition, the improper disposal of electronic devices causes significant environmental pollution BMZ. However, companies often face challenges such as technological hurdles, high investment costs and a lack of awareness in consumer society.

Global initiatives and support

In order to address the problem of electronic waste, international research and assistance is also being carried out. German development cooperation supports partner countries, such as Ghana, in setting up socially and environmentally compatible recycling systems. This includes advice on the development of laws and the improvement of technical capacities in recycling companies. These initiatives are crucial to promote sustainable practices through collaborations between government and private sector actors.

In summary, the combination of research in German universities and international collaboration on circular economy projects represents an important step towards reducing electronic waste and promoting sustainable solutions. The targeted duration of the new funding phase in the Cluster of Excellence is seven years and begins on January 1, 2026, with an annual budget of 539 million euros.