The Never-ending LCD Story: Transitioning the Electronics Industry in Ireland to a More Circular Economy

Abstract: The proliferation of short-lived electronic devices is resulting in mounting levels of e-waste worldwide. Increasingly, these products have LCD screens, from simple fitness trackers to kitchen gadgets and toys. Some raw materials used are Critical Raw Materials (CRMs) and of high importance to the EU economy. There are high This study investigated how companies in Ireland plan to comply with relevant EU directives related to this problem and find potential solutions to the barriers currently faced by the electronics industry, particularly companies that cater to LCD waste management. The study concluded that the key barriers faced were dependence on manual labour, lack of awareness about the EcoLabel initiative, lack of local processes within Ireland, and lack of a cost-effective solution for recycling.