The European TREASURE project, aimed at promoting circularity in automotive electronics, has been featured on CORDIS, the European Union’s official platform for sharing research and innovation project results. The article, titled “Applying circularity to car electronics”, emphasizes the efforts of the 15 international partners involved in this initiative, including Walter Pack, a leader in the design and production of functional decorative components.
A project driving sustainability
Launched in June 2021 under the Horizon 2020 program, TREASURE addresses a pressing challenge in automotive electronics: the environmental impact of traditional printed circuit boards (PCBs). These critical components, essential for electronic functions in vehicles, are notoriously difficult to recycle due to their complex mix of plastics, metals, and semiconductors. TREASURE explores sustainable alternatives such as hybrid and printed electronics technologies (HPE), paving the way for a circular production model.
To enable this transition, TREASURE has developed a holistic methodology that evaluates environmental, economic, social, and circularity aspects. This innovative tool provides key indicators to support designers, recyclers, and manufacturers in making more sustainable decisions.
Walter Pack’s role in TREASURE
As part of this groundbreaking project, Walter Pack is leading the development of a demonstrator to compare cutting-edge technologies, such as the integration of electronic functions into decorative surfaces (IMSE), with traditional PCB manufacturing methods. This demonstrator not only evaluates the environmental impact of these solutions but also explores how to improve functionality while maintaining the company’s renowned design standards.
“Our goal is to combine design and sustainability to deliver solutions that are both functional and environmentally friendly. Being part of TREASURE reinforces our commitment to innovation and a more sustainable future,” explains Laura del Hoyo, R&D leader at Walter Pack.
What is CORDIS?
CORDIS (Community Research and Development Information Service) is the official platform of the European Union for publishing and disseminating results from research and innovation projects. Its goal is to connect researchers, businesses, and the public with advancements in science, technology, and society. The inclusion of TREASURE on this platform highlights the project’s importance and potential impact across the industry.
A shared commitment to circularity
Beyond technological development, TREASURE offers tools to simulate the lifecycle of electronic products, optimize recyclability, and guide end-users in reusing components. These resources aim to foster a responsible approach across the value chain, encouraging sustainability at every stage.
International recognition
The recognition of TREASURE on CORDIS underscores its role as a benchmark for sustainable innovation in Europe. For Walter Pack, this milestone reaffirms the company’s position as a key player in driving a more circular and sustainable automotive industry.
Read the full article on CORDIS
