Valorization of E-Waste: Innovation and Sustainable Chemistry for a Circular Economy

Dear Colleagues,

Electronic waste (e-waste) is a pressing global challenge, with annual volumes projected to exceed 82 million metric tons by 2030 and less than a quarter being properly recycled. Beyond its environmental risks, e-waste represents an untapped "urban mine", rich in valuable materials like precious metals, rare earth elements, and polymers. Its valorization presents a unique opportunity to drive sustainable innovation, reduce environmental harm and support the circular economy.

This Special Issue explores innovative approaches to e-waste valorization, focusing on material recovery, sustainable chemistry and circular economy integration. In particular, the transformation of e-waste into value-added products such as heterogeneous catalysts holds immense promise for advancing green chemistry and sustainable industrial processes.

We invite original research and reviews on topics such as the following:

• Advanced recycling methods for metals, polymers, and catalysts from e-waste.
• Development of heterogeneous catalysts derived from e-waste materials, including precious metals and transition metals.
• Green and scalable recovery technologies, including bioleaching and eco-friendly processes.
• Applications of e-waste-derived catalysts in energy production, environmental remediation and chemical synthesis.
• Lifecycle analyses and economic assessments of e-waste valorization.
• Strategies for integrating e-waste into circular economy frameworks.

By transforming e-waste into a key resource, this Issue aims to promote technological innovation, address resource scarcity, and advance global sustainability.

We welcome original research, reviews, and case studies that pave the way for a greener future.

Dr. Emilia Paone
Guest Editor

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