Advancing Circular Economy Solutions for Electrical and Electronic Equipment
The Marche Region is taking an important step toward a more sustainable and circular future by launching the testing phase of the 0WEEE PROCURE project, an innovative initiative designed to transform how electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) is purchased, used, reused, and managed.
The 0WEEE PROCURE project introduces a set of eco-innovative, non-profit services aimed at reducing waste, extending product lifecycles, and promoting responsible resource use across the electrical and electronic (E&E) sector. What 0WEEE PROCURE Brings to the E&E Sector
Through its pilot actions, the project will:
- Promote eco-leasing models for EEE, reducing the need for new purchases
- Support product customization and refurbishment to extend equipment lifespan
- Improve maintenance and management systems for greater efficiency
- Encourage the recovery and regeneration of EEE for effective reuse
- Ensure proper disposal and recycling of WEEE through authorized operators
- Identify potential external beneficiaries (such as associations and educational institutions) and define transparent donation procedures
Together, these actions aim to create a closed-loop system for WEEE, combining environmental protection with social responsibility.
The Role of the Marche Region
The Regional Executive of the Marche Region manages the Regional Waste Management Plan (RWMP), which includes the Regional Program of Waste Prevention (RPWP) covering both municipal and special waste streams. The RWMP’s macro-objectives focus on improving integrated waste management and promoting correct handling of special waste, while the RPWP specifically targets waste prevention through concrete actions across the region.
Through the 0WEEE PROCURE pilot, the Marche Region aims to enhance the RWMP by integrating Local Action Plan (LAP) measures, strengthening prevention strategies and fostering circular economy practices in the E&E sector.
Project Objective and Approach
Objective:
To support the transition from a linear to a circular and eco-innovative E&E sector, creating sustainable services that reduce waste generation, promote reuse, and raise environmental awareness.
How:
The project is structured into a series of phases designed to actively involve stakeholders, collect data, promote reuse networks, and build long-term, scalable solutions.
Project Phases and Timeline
- Phase 1 – Data Collection (by end of January 2026)
Collection and structuring of key data using stakeholder inputs and bibliographic sources to define the project framework.
- Phase 2 – Stakeholder Engagement (mid-February 2026)
Connection with institutions and reuse centres, including a hybrid (in-person and online) stakeholder workshop and formal data requests.
- Phase 3 – Business Plan Development (by end of February 2026)
Drafting of a business plan based on refurbishment models, reuse scenarios, and associated costs.
- Phase 4 – Educational Activities (February–mid-March 2026)
Educational initiatives in ten schools using digital tools such as Padlet, with tailored learning paths for different education levels.
Business Plan and Final Output
The Business plan represents the core output of the pilot action. Once approved by the administration, it will serve as a practical guideline for stakeholders and can be adapted to different territorial contexts and reuse scenarios.
What’s Next?
The Marche Region will host a participatory workshop next month, bringing together institutions, experts, and stakeholders to share progress, exchange ideas, and co-create future solutions.
Stay tuned for updates as the 0WEEE PROCURE project moves forward toward a more circular and sustainable future!
