RECYCLING AND UPCYCLING IN THE ELECTRO-MECHANICAL DOMAIN: A REVIEW OF CURRENT PRACTICES

This study provides a comprehensive review of current practices, challenges, and future prospects in recycling and upcycling within the electro-mechanical domain, with a particular focus on the role of recyclable electronic components in sustainable system design. The primary objectives were to assess the effectiveness of existing recycling techniques, explore innovative upcycling approaches, and evaluate the integration of recyclable components in system design. The methodology employed a systematic literature review, drawing data from peer-reviewed journals, industry reports, and government publications. Key databases such as IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar were utilized, with a focus on literature published between 2018 and 2023. The findings revealed that while current recycling techniques are effective, they face technical and economic barriers that hinder widespread adoption. Upcycling approaches show promise in enhancing the value and utility of electro-mechanical systems. The integration of recyclable electronic components is pivotal for sustainability, though it requires more efficient recycling processes and innovative design strategies. Emerging technologies, such as IoT and AI, offer potential solutions but are underexplored in practical applications. The study concludes that sustainable practices in the electro-mechanical domain significantly impact environmental conservation and resource management. However, supportive policy and regulatory frameworks are crucial for enhancing these practices. Future research should focus on developing more efficient recycling techniques, exploring the economic viability of sustainable practices, and integrating emerging technologies. Addressing these areas is essential for advancing sustainability in the electro-mechanical domain. Keywords: Recycling, Electromechanical systems, Upcycling, Sustainable Design