Top electronics brands and global organizations launch first private sector alliance for circular electronics
05 May 2021: Top electronics companies, together with a group of pioneering global organizations, set a vision and roadmap committing to a circular economy for electronics by 2030. These companies include some of the world’s largest consumer brands.
The global Circular Electronics Partnership (CEP) marks the first time experts, business leaders and global organizations will co-design solutions around this topic. E-waste is currently the fastest-growing waste stream in the world, one estimated at nearly 50 million tons. Research finds that only 17.4% of e-waste is collected and recycled. This waste is worth at least $57 billion annually, more than the GDPs of many countries, offering a unique opportunity for economic growth and resilience if handled correctly.
CEP’s vision will maximize the value of components, products and materials through their full lifecycles using safe and fair labor and depending on only circular resources. These shifts will generate economic value while creating social and environmental impact.
This multi-stakeholder partnership will translate commitments into immediate actions, such as:
# Defining circular electronic product and services;
# Mobilizing a global, sustainable and circular procurement commitment;
# Developing a responsible recycling and circular material data system;
# Commercial financing mechanisms for increased collection.
Along with the partnership, the group announces the launch of an action road map. This document, endorsed by business leaders and experts, identifies six pathways to circularity.
“There’s no time to waste in finding sustainable solutions for consumption and production,” says Dominic Waughray, Managing Director, World Economic Forum. “The roadmap and vision set forth by the Circular Electronics Partnership will create the necessary momentum to maximize resources, transform value chains and make the circular transition in electronics a reality.”
Collaborators include: Cisco, Closing the Loop, Dell Technologies, Glencore, Google, KPMG International, Lanxess, Microsoft, Security Matters, Sims Limited and Vodafone, among others.
The companies have been brought together by a new alliance of convening organizations that include: Global Electronics Council (GEC), Global Enabling Sustainability Initiative (GeSI), Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy (PACE), Responsible Business Alliance (RBA), World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), and the World Economic Forum (WEF). The vision and roadmap were developed in collaboration with other stakeholders, including the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
www.cep2030.org
