GenevaEnvironmentNetwork.org
Since 2014 there has been a 20% increase in in global E-waste generation. In 2021 the construction industry accounted for 37% of process related carbon emissions. Additionally, the industry uses about 40% of raw materials globally. With this information there has been a strong demand for increased sustainability in construction.
Waste Printed Circuit Boards (WPCBs) contain a blend of fiberglass, copper, epoxy resins, plastics, gold, and silver. They also contain hazardous elements like cadmium, mercury, and lead. Due to the many materials that compose WPCBs recycling becomes difficult.
One study showed that incorporating WPCB fibers into concrete significantly increased its mechanical strength. This offers a potential solution to making construction more sustainable as well as creating a more sustainable method of recycling WPCBs.