Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1532533
FEBRUARY 2025 I PCB007 MAGAZINE 93 • Design for circularity: Existing products are not designed for reusable or repairable disassembly nor optimized for material recovery when life extension is not feasible • Supply chain coordination: Fragmented supply chains struggle to align efforts for effective circularity • Lack of awareness and education: Lim- ited understanding of circular principles among stakeholders Industry Engagements and Findings • Workshops and surveys: Stakeholders identified barriers such as low economic incentives, lack of global policies, and the need for better data collection via digital product passports • Case studies: Initiatives like chip reuse proj- ects and standards for marking boards dem- onstrate the potential of circular solutions • Collaborations: Partnerships among manufacturers, policymakers, and aca- demia have highlighted the value of collec- tive action Recommended Actions • Foster collaboration: Engage the entire supply chain to identify and address circu- larity challenges collectively • Develop standards: Create frameworks for data sharing, product passports, and circular product design. Leverage existing CEP guidelines • Enhance education: Provide training and resources to build awareness and skills in circular practices • Improve infrastructure: Invest in systems for recycling, refurbishing, and data sharing • Promote economic models: Implement tax incentives and subsidies to make circu- larity financially viable 2025 Outlook • Working groups: Continue efforts in data chal- lenges, education, and economic initiatives • Stakeholder engagements: Expand par- ticipation in forums and webinars • Industry resources: Develop a repository of case studies and standards to guide cir- cular practices We will have more exciting news to announce in the coming months so stay tuned. PCB007 Kelly Scanlon is the lead sustainability strategist at IPC.