Within the activities of the meetMED II project (Mitigation Enabling Energy Transition in the Mediterranean Region), funded by the European Union, a “Professional Training Course on the Implementation of Appliances Scrapping” took place in Lisbon from 01- 03 July 2024. The training  was organised in close collaboration with ADENE – Agency for Energy and Electrão — one of the key drivers of E-waste recycling in Portugal.

The three-day training aimed at enriching national policymakers and key stakeholders representing project beneficiary countries with practical knowledge about the EU experience and expertise of E-waste management and recycling industry.

Throughout the first day, the technical session hosted by Electrão, focused on the importance of recycling systems based on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in the face of environmental challenges and the need to secure essential raw materials for the energy transition in Europe. This significance was underscored by the intervention of the WEEE Forum (International Association of Electronic Waste Producer Responsibility Organisations), which highlighted the “European regulations and policies in appliance scrapping and e-waste.”

During the second and third days, participants had the opportunity to visit three leading electric waste sorting and recycling plants in Portugal. These included the Electrão warehouse, where used electrical equipment for recycling is stored and batteries are sorted; Ambigroup, which specializes in best practices for recycling refrigerators; and Veolia Portugal, one of the world leaders in the treatment, recycling, and recovery of hazardous waste.

Day 1 | Technical Session on Extended Producer Responsibility and E-Waste Management - Part 1

  • Pedro Nazareth (Electrão CEO): Emphasized the significance of recycling systems based on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to address environmental challenges and secure essential raw materials for Europe’s energy transition.
  • Pascal Leroy (WEEE Forum Director General): Highlighted European regulations and policies concerning appliance scrapping and e-waste (DownloadPDF)

Day 1 | Technical Session on Extended Producer Responsibility and E-Waste Management - Part 2

  • Mónica Luízio (Compliance Director, Electrão): Provided a training on environmentally friendly scrapping of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE). Also discussed the enforcement of extended producer responsibility, with new licenses effective for the next decade, marking a significant advancement in Portugal’s recycling system (Download PDF)
  • Andreia Craveiro (Collection Network Coordinator, Electrão): Presented on the challenges and solutions related to the supply chain for scrapped appliances (Download PDF)
  • Susana Ferreira (Waste Management Director, Electrão): Focused on facilities for waste electrical equipment (Download PDF)
  • Ahmed Abd El-Rasoul (Senior Environmental Expert, RCREEE): Identified some of the challenges the beneficiary countries of the project will have to face (Download PDF)

Day 2 | Technical Session at Ambigroup

Ricardo Diogo, Administrator, Ambigroup: Presented insightful information about Ambigroup as a leading environmental and waste management company celebrating 40 years of operation, with a workforce of 650 across eight recycling parks. He further elaborated on Ambigroup Demolições which specializes in large-scale controlled demolitions, ensuring the reuse of industrial equipment and the recovery of valuable materials. Their state-of-the-art recycling facilities utilize advanced technologies for efficient processing, and the company is committed to sustainability through renewable energy initiatives and stringent environmental certifications (Download PDF)

Day 2 | Site Visit at Ambigroup

  • Participants had the opportunity to tour Ambigroup’s state-of-the-art processing facilities, gaining firsthand insight into the best practices for recycling appliances, with a particular focus on refrigerators.
  • Best Practices for Appliance Recycling: As the group moved through the facility, they observed the meticulous processes employed in recycling appliances. Special emphasis was placed on refrigerators, which require specific handling due to their components and refrigerants.
  • Participants learned how refrigerators are safely decommissioned, ensuring that harmful substances are removed before the recycling process begins.
  • The tour showcased the advanced technology used for material separation. Staff demonstrated how metals, plastics, and other materials are extracted and sorted for recycling, highlighting the importance of reducing waste and maximizing resource recovery.
  • Throughout the tour, staff emphasized the environmental benefits of responsibly recycling appliances. Participants engaged in discussions about the impact of improper disposal and the significance of adhering to best practices to mitigate environmental harm.

Day 3 | Site Visit at Electrão Warehouse

  • Participants visited the Electrão warehouse, a facility dedicated to the recycling of used electrical equipment. Upon arrival, the group was greeted by knowledgeable staff who provided an overview of the company’s mission to promote sustainable recycling practices.
  • The warehouse was well-organized and efficiently laid out, showcasing various sections dedicated to different types of electrical equipment. Participants observed how used appliances, such as refrigerators, televisions, and computers, were carefully stored in designated areas. This systematic approach not only maximizes space but also ensures that items are easily accessible for processing.
  • A significant highlight of the visit was the battery sorting area. Participants learned about the importance of proper battery disposal and recycling. The staff explained the sorting process, where batteries are categorized based on their type and chemistry. This meticulous sorting is crucial, as it minimizes environmental hazards and maximizes the recovery of valuable materials.
  • Throughout the visit, the participants engaged in discussions about the environmental benefits of recycling electrical equipment. The staff emphasized how recycling helps reduce landfill waste and conserve natural resources, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Day 3 | Technical Session at Veolia Portugal

  • Sandra Silva, COO of Waste, Veolia Portugal: outlined Veolia’s commitment to ecological transformation and waste management, highlighting its global presence and multifaceted performance across various environmental sectors. With a revenue of €42.9 billion and operations in 58 countries, Veolia focuses on decarbonization, resource regeneration, and pollution treatment. The document details their services in waste collection, energy production, and water management, emphasizing sustainable practices and innovative solutions. It also showcases Veolia Portugal’s specific initiatives and key figures, reinforcing the company’s dedication to improving community health and environmental quality (Download PDF)

Day 3 | Site Visit at Veolia Portugal

  • Throughout the visit, Vasco Medes, Quality, Safety and Environment Leader at Veolia Portugal, provided insights into the safety protocols and environmental standards upheld by Veolia. Demonstrations of cutting-edge technologies, such as IoT-enabled waste collection systems and innovative recycling methods, illustrate the company’s dedication to efficiency and sustainability. Participants also have the opportunity to engage in discussions about Veolia’s efforts in decarbonization and resource regeneration, learning how these initiatives benefit both the environment and local communities.
  • The visit concludes with a Q&A session, allowing attendees to ask questions and deepen their understanding of Veolia’s mission and operations in hazardous waste management.