Here we are examining some of the touchpoints with our work at GIVE and ECS Sustainability and Environmental Footprint Whitepaper
Introduction
The European Platform on Smart Systems Integration (EPoSS) recently released a whitepaper that delves into the future of green electronic components and systems (ECS). The paper outlines the state-of-the-art, challenges, and recommendations for stakeholders in both public and private sectors.
This blog post aims to provide an analysis of the whitepaper, with a particular focus on the domains of GIVE with design, bio-based, organic, and renewable materials, as well as new production methods. We will also explore how these insights align with our ongoing work in the innovation cluster focused on bio-based and organic materials in electronics, batteries, and solar cells.
The E-Waste Challenge
One of the most pressing issues highlighted in the whitepaper is the growing problem of electronic waste (e-waste). The global e-waste is expected to reach 74.7 million tonnes (Mt) by 2030, with Europe contributing around 12 Mt in 2019 alone. Shockingly, only 42.5% of this was collected and recycled. These figures underscore the urgency for sustainable solutions in the ECS domain.
Material Innovations: Bio-based and Organic
The whitepaper emphasizes the need for new materials and substrates, such as wide bandgap and flexible materials. It also discusses low-power computing architectures like neuromorphic and quantum computing. In line with our work, the paper highlights the importance of incorporating high recycled content, bio-based, and/or bio-degradable materials. For instance, the use of polylactic acid (PLA), silk fibroin, and cellulose-based materials like paper are cited as promising bio-based materials for flexible electronics.
Touch Points with Our Work
Our innovation cluster is actively researching the use of bio-based and organic materials in electronics. The whitepaper's focus on materials like PLA and silk fibroin aligns well with our efforts to replace conventional fossil-based materials with sustainable alternatives. We are also exploring the use of organic photovoltaics in solar cells, which could revolutionize the way we think about renewable energy.
Design Considerations
The whitepaper argues that about 80% of a product's sustainability performance is determined during the design phase. This resonates with our belief that design is not just about aesthetics or functionality; it's also about sustainability. Our work in design focuses on creating products that are not only innovative but also have a minimal environmental impact.
A Holistic Approach to Circular Electronics: Design for R
The "Design for R" approach offers a comprehensive strategy for implementing a circular economy in electronics (ECS). It builds on existing Design for X methodologies and the 9R framework, introducing a new "R" for "reliability." By using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), the approach prioritizes actions based on their environmental impact. For example, in personal computing devices, the focus is on the design and manufacturing of integrated circuits, a significant source of carbon emissions.
Challenges and Benefits: From Eco-Design to Eco-Reliability
The approach presents both challenges and opportunities. It requires a complete redesign of the computing stack to reduce carbon emissions from hardware and operations. However, it also provides a roadmap for creating more sustainable electronics. The concept of "eco-reliability" emerges as a holistic strategy that extends product lifetimes while evaluating environmental impacts, aligning with the European Commission's Circular Economy Action Plan.
Structural Electronics
The concept of structural electronics, involving the printing of functional electronic circuitry across irregular-shaped architectures, is particularly intriguing. This method can lead to more compact, lighter and seamlessly integrated electronic components, offering new avenues for design innovation.
Production Methods: Additive Manufacturing
The whitepaper suggests a shift towards sustainable manufacturing methods, specifically additive manufacturing methods like printing. These methods are not only resource-efficient but also compatible with renewable materials. Our cluster is actively researching additive manufacturing techniques, particularly for batteries and solar cells.
Recommendations and Future Directions
The whitepaper recommends expanding investment in R&D for developing new technologies, processes, and materials that are environmentally friendly. It also calls for promoting awareness and education among consumers and stakeholders. These recommendations are in line with our focus on research, innovation, and public engagement.
Conclusion
The ECS whitepaper serves as a comprehensive guide for the future of green electronics, touching on crucial aspects like material innovation, design considerations, and sustainable production methods. Its insights align closely with our ongoing work, offering both validation and inspiration for future endeavours.
For further reading, you can access the full ECS Whitepaper here.
References
Potting, J., et al., "Circular Economy: Measuring Innovation in Product Chains," PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, 2016.
Kirchherr, J., et al., "Conceptualizing the Circular Economy," Resources, Conservation and Recycling, Volume 127, 2017, pp. 221–32. DOI
Jansson, E., et al., "Suitability of Paper-based Substrates for Printed Electronics," Materials, 2022, 15, 957. DOI
Note: All images, statistics and insights are based on the ECS Whitepaper by EPoSS.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on desktop research on the Internet and aims to provide new insights for inspiration and idea generation. It has not been scientifically validated. Exercise due diligence and consult experts before making decisions based on this content.
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