A recent study by the Finnish research center VTT has opened a window into a more sustainable future in the flexible electronics industry. The key lies in changing the way we manufacture these devices, and the results are promising: implementing new methodologies can reduce environmental impact by up to 86%.
The project, developed in collaboration with LUT University and co-financed by Business Finland, proposes replacing traditional processes like circuit etching (PCB etching) with additive printing techniques on biodegradable substrates such as paper or bioplastics. This change not only drastically reduces material waste and energy consumption but also eliminates the use of harmful chemicals, bringing the industry closer to a more circular and sustainable model.
A direct impact on our business
The transition to more sustainable processes directly affects organizations like Walter Pack. Adopting these technological innovations not only responds to the growing customer demand for more environmentally friendly products but also aligns with international regulations shaping the industry’s direction.
Ander Irazu, Key Account Manager at Walter Pack Mexico, summarizes it as follows: “At Walter Pack, we have always embraced sustainability as a growth driver. Studies like VTT’s confirm that it is not only possible to reduce our environmental footprint but also to become more competitive in an increasingly demanding market. Our commitment is to offer our clients products that combine technology, functionality, and sustainability.”
Rethinking critical materials
Another challenge addressed is the use of silver, a key material in electronics but with a high environmental impact. The study proposes replacing it with more sustainable alternatives, such as copper or carbon-based materials, further reducing the ecological footprint.
A global challenge with a view to the future
The flexible electronics market will reach $45.88 billion by 2026, while the volume of electronic waste could exceed 74 billion kilograms by 2030. Faced with this reality, initiatives like ECOtronics, led by VTT, aim not only to reduce the environmental footprint but also to lay the foundation for an industry that can comply with regulations such as the European Commission’s sustainable product initiative and meet the demands of more conscious consumers.
The Finnish Technical Research Center (VTT) is a pioneering institution in technological innovation and sustainability. Its work covers key sectors such as electronics, energy, and advanced materials, aiming to develop solutions that transform the way we interact with the world.
For more information on this study and its implications, you can consult the full study here:
