adelphi joins StEP initiative on solving the e-waste problem

In the wake of this year's the World Recycling Day, adelphi joined the StEP initiative on solving the e-waste problem on 29th March 2019. 

Old electronic devices contain many valuable materials that can be recycled. However, they are also full of pollutants that require proper, environmentally friendly disposal – which is not the case in many parts of the world. This situation led to the foundation of the ‘Solving the E-Waste Problem’ (StEP) initiative, an independent, multi-stakeholder platform. Its purpose: to help develop strategies for the sustainable sorting, recycling and disposal of all types of electronic waste. adelphi joined the StEP initiative on March 29, 2019. 

‘Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world’

‘Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world. We hope to send a positive signal for the more conscious use of natural resources’, explains Mikael Henzler, Managing Director of adelphi.

The 56 current members of the international StEP initiative rely on an integrated approach, based heavily in science. A primary focus: the 12th sustainable development goal of the 2030 Agenda, ‘responsible consumption and production’.

The project outcomes are aimed at two major areas: On the one hand, the reduction of the negative effects of improper waste disposal on the environment and human beings. On the other, decreasing the waste hierarchy by producing less electronic waste and promoting repairs and recycling.

StEP’s work is based on scientific assessments and applied business practices. It provides a comprehensive overview of the social, environmental and economic aspects of the design, production, use and disposal of electronic equipment. StEP works in partnership with numerous international players from industry, politics, non-governmental organisations and science. 

adelphi’s projects: working towards the circular economy 

adelphi develops solutions for the transition to a closed circular economy. Our projects support the marketing of ecologically designed products, the introduction of resource-efficient production methods, the enhancement of resource efficiency, the development of sustainable business management and circular business models, and the implementation of effective waste management systems.

The concept of the circular economy goes beyond traditional approaches and requires fundamental, system-wide change along global value chains. By supporting decision-makers in politics and the private sector, and taking into account the diversity of interest groups, adelphi is driving forward the transformation to cycle-based production and sustainable consumption.

Interview with Morton Hemkhaus: ‘The circular economy is still in its infancy’