ELLEN MACARTHUR FOUNDATION
Effective governance frameworks for critical mineral strategies rely on operational metrics such as:
• Equipment lifecycle extension: Tracking the duration of high-value hardware remaining in active service past initial depreciation schedules
• Recycled input ratios: Quantifying the proportion of secondary minerals integrated into complex assemblies, chipsets and cooling systems
• Design iteration performance: Measuring reductions in raw critical mineral requirements per unit of capacity, alongside shifts away from conflict-origin or volatile materials. do not distinguish between secondary resources and end-of-life waste, Sean explains. Establishing strong data security and safety protocols for e-waste processors is also critical to building corporate trust in device take-back programmes.
Standardising metrics and governance Integrating circularity into core operations requires shifting from traditional waste metrics to indicators focused on input, design and longevity. Historically, corporate reporting has emphasised outbound waste volumes over the quality of material circulation.
“ The whole measurement of circularity is one which is not well harmonised,” Sean says.” Companies can really show progress by defining those metrics, showing their aspiration and moving towards that.”
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is focusing on bringing businesses together to collaborate effectively, through shared infrastructure, co-investment and policy advocacy.
By setting standardised battery design criteria, developing commercial refurbishment models and addressing regional processing capacity constraints, the Foundation is supporting the integration of circularity into industrial operations.
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