Set to revolutionise the electronics industry of the UK with more sustainable practices, the UK Research and Innovation has unveiled a £5.5 million sustainable electronics design and manufacturing centre in Scotland.
The United Kingdom has launched a £5.5 million sustainable electronics manufacturing and design centre in Scotland. The four-year project, Responsible Electronics and Circular Technologies Centre (REACT) was announced on Monday. The University of Glasgow will coordinate the centre in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University, and the Compound Semiconductor Catapult.
REACT is part of a broader £25 million investment from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under its ‘Accelerating the Green Economy’ programme.
The centre will focus on transitioning the electronics industry in Scotland’s Central Belt towards net-zero operations, tackling environmental and economic challenges while fostering collaboration among academia, industry, and policymakers.
Scotland’s electronics sector, comprising over 130 companies and employing 10,300 people with an annual turnover exceeding £2.8 billion, is under pressure to adapt to decarbonisation demands from manufacturers and regulatory frameworks. The initiative aims to reduce electronic waste, limit reliance on critical raw materials, and lower carbon emissions.
Furthermore, the centre will provide access to advanced equipment and expertise, supporting start-ups and larger organisations in integrating compound semiconductor technologies. Researchers will work with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to offer skills training.
REACT intends to reshape the electronics landscape in Scotland, contributing to the UK’s global competitiveness and promoting sustainable practices across the industry. It is one of UKRI’s five initiatives. Launching in October 2024, three centres will be located in Scotland, one in Wales, and another in south-west England, all with co-investment from private sector partners.
Commenting on the matter, Dr Kate Hamer, UKRI Programme Director, highlighted that transitioning to a sustainable economy creates jobs and partnerships. This investment will drive innovation and support the UK’s net zero goal by 2050, forming part of UKRI’s strategy to tackle complex challenges through research.
