Introduction to Circularity

GOGLA has expanded its e-waste hub to encompass all aspects of circularity within the off-grid solar sector – reflecting the efforts being made by the industry on extending product lifespan, reducing supply chain footprint, enhancing repairability and refurbishment, second-life battery innovations, and implementing take-back, collection and recycling of end-of-life products. Many companies are also taking steps to build consumer awareness around product quality and proper disposal of out-of-warranty end-of-life products.

The sector currently serves almost half a billion people in low and middle-income markets bringing positive social, environmental and economic impacts. Across the industry, it’s widely acknowledged that action to increase circularity is important to protect business growth and impact, and helps to promote a positive image and reputation. For example, enhancing product quality and lifespan not only reduces eventual e-waste but also ensures that the social, environmental and economic impacts created are sustained for longer. Increasing consumer awareness and promoting responsible disposal or repair of end-of-life products can prevent consumers from returning to traditional, polluting fuels.

GOGLA is supporting innovations in circularity such that effective action is possible even in markets with yet-to-mature e-waste regulations and recycling facilities, and promotes extended producer responsibility (EPR) principles. Through our circularity work, we aim to convene industry stakeholders to gather and share best-practice, increase expertise within the sector and find opportunities for collaboration.

Our Circularity Working Group brings together industry members who are keen to share and learn about product lifecycle analysis, repair and refurbishment, e-waste policy and management tools, battery innovations, take-back and collection, and consumer awareness raising and incentives. Find out how you can join the working group here.