Circular Economy in ICT and Electronics
24 May 14:00-16:00 CET
We are increasingly surrounded by complex electronic products that we interact with in many, if not most, of our daily activities. We use smartphones and computers, kitchen aids and washing machines, specialized medical devices and even wearables like battery-powered shoes. These devices have become an essential part of our lives and integrating them into a circular economy is crucial for the future.
A circular approach to ICT and electronics, i.e. smarter design, longer use, remanufacturing and eventually recycling of products, significantly reduces global pressure on rare natural resources. At the same time, changing the perception of e-waste to be a high-value resource can prevent pollution and mitigate climate change. The global shift towards a circular economy for ICT and electronics requires creativity and innovation in areas such as design, business models and reverse logistics.
During our CE Tour travel stop on ICT & Electronics, hosted by Flanders, we will meet European companies that have taken up the challenge of working with electronics in a circular economy. We will hear about hands-on experiences from various angles at the interface of electronics and circular economy and engage in a panel discussion with these pioneers.
Agenda
14:00 Welcome
Katharina Desmet, Flanders Investment & Trade
14:10 Keynote: ICT & electronics as key enablers for Europe's Green and Digital "Twin" Transition
Yoko Dams, Research Team lead Circular Economy at the Flemish research institute VITO NV
14:25 Introduction video with circular company examples
14:35 Good practices from SMEs across Europe:
- Mark Adriaenssens, CEO - Out of Use from Flanders
- Friedrich Wilhelm Köllenbach - UTK Solution from NRW
- Circular Industries from the Netherlands
- Gordon Lowrie, Managing Director - ReTek from Schotland
- Vincent De Smedt, Founder and Business Development - Edmire from Flanders
14:50 Panel discussion
The five European SMEs about circular design, the future of a green economy, current and forthcoming legislation on design and repair and much more
moderated by Pieter Demaeght, Flanders Investment & Trade
15:20 Questions from the audience
15:30 Matchmaking opportunities with b2match and upcoming events of the CE Tour
15:40 Summary and good bye
Please view here the recording of the full webinar
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