The RETURN Project Structure
Work Packages, Goals and Partner Involvement
Transforming Europe’s e-waste from a linear problem into a circular resource is a massive undertaking. To achieve this, the RETURN project is organized into 8 dedicated Work Packages (WPs).
Below is a complete overview of our core focus areas and the consortium partners leading the charge.
WP 01
STRATEGY REVIEW
Defining the Roadmap for Circularity
A successful transition to a circular economy requires more than just good technology; it requires a bulletproof business case. We establish the foundational roadmap for the project by reviewing the highly competitive WEEE recycling sector, mapping workflows, and evaluating incoming legislation (like the EU Critical Raw Materials Act). This ensures our technical, sustainability, and commercial targets exceed current industry standards and are primed for rapid market adoption.
Workpackage lead: GAP Group
WP 02
ANALYSIS, SORTING, SEPARATION & BATCHING
Intelligent Identification and Precision Disassembly
You cannot effectively recycle what you do not understand. E-waste is incredibly complex, and current manual sorting is simply too slow and imprecise. We develop advanced Visual/NIR and XRT machine-vision systems coupled with AI deep-learning algorithms to instantly identify components and materials. In tandem, we design mechanical robotics to safely disassemble and sort Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) into homogenous batches, preparing them for highly efficient chemical processing.
Workpackage Lead: Université Jean Monnet
WP 03
DES PROCESS OPTIMISATION (TRL 5-6)
Scaling Green Chemistry for Metal Recovery
Moving away from high-carbon, toxic smelting requires a proven, scalable chemical alternative that can be seamlessly integrated into existing facilities. We optimize our core Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES) green chemistry on a development line. This involves testing mechanical shredding methods, optimizing solvent-to-waste ratios, and creating a robust database of process parameters to ensure >99% recovery of critical metals safely and efficiently.
Workpackage Lead: DEScycle
WP 04
DES PRE-COMMERCIAL LINE PROCESS OPERATION (TRL 6-8)
Bridging the Gap to Industrial Commercialization
The biggest hurdle for deep-tech innovation is crossing the “valley of death” between laboratory success and full-scale industrial application. We deploy and operate a pre-commercial pilot plant processing up to 150kg batches in large industrial vessels. We optimize the hardware and chemistry at scale, generate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and conduct third-party recycling trials to demonstrate the technology’s commercial readiness and profitability to the market.
Workpackage Lead: DEScycle
WP 05
DIGITAL PRODUCT PASSPORTS & MARKETPLACE
Building Trust and Traceability in the Value Chain
Trust and traceability are the currencies of the circular economy. Manufacturers need verifiable proof of origin and quality to meet strict corporate and EU sustainability goals. We build a secure, blockchain-backed digital infrastructure where every batch of recovered metal or reusable component receives a Digital Product Passport (DPP). We also develop a Dynamic Digital Marketplace (DDM) to connect e-waste recyclers directly with buyers, closing the economic loop.
Workpackage Lead: Minespider
WP 06
SUSTAINABILITY, CIRCULARITY & SOCIAL IMPACT
Quantifying Environmental and Economic Benefits
True circularity requires measurable, scientific proof that new technologies are genuinely better for the planet and the economy than the legacy systems they replace. We conduct continuous Life Cycle Assessments (LCA), Social Life Cycle Assessments (SLCA), and Techno-Economic Analyses (TEA) across the entire RETURN process. We quantify our environmental impact, test for comparative toxicity, prove our reductions in carbon emissions, and validate the commercial profitability of our pilot plants.
Workpackage Lead: Cycleco
WP 07
DISSEMINATION, COMMUNICATION & EXPLOITATION
Driving Market Adoption and Policy Engagement
Groundbreaking technology only matters if the industry actually adopts it. Stakeholders, from policymakers to the general public, need to be informed and actively engaged. We manage the project’s strategic communication, public relations, and exploitation strategy. We handle Intellectual Property (IP) management, explore future funding avenues, and ensure our findings reach the right audiences to drive commercial adoption and shape regulatory frameworks.
Workpackage Lead: Iconiq Innovation
WP 08
PROJECT DELIVERY
Managing Synergy Across a European Consortium
A multi-national consortium uniting 9 partners across 6 countries requires seamless integration to achieve its ambitious, multi-million-euro goals on time and within budget. We oversee the overarching strategic direction, financial management, ethics compliance, and daily operations of the RETURN project. We also manage Open Science data sharing and Digital Data Collaboration to ensure transparency and smooth execution from the laboratory to the industrial pilot line.
Workpackage Lead: DEScycle