E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world.
In 2024 alone, more than 1.22 billion smartphones were produced, adding to billions of TVs, laptops, and computers already in use.
Despite this, around 78% of electronics aren’t properly recycled. That means missed opportunities and mounting environmental costs. At the current pace, global e-waste could reach 80 million tonnes by 2030, enough to circle the planet in 1.5 million trucks.
One solution is starting to take shape in Denmark, where researchers are building robots that can take on one of the toughest challenges in recycling: refurbishing laptops.
RoboSAPIENS
The Danish Technological Institute is developing an AI-driven robotic system that can replace laptop screens automatically. Screen replacement is a common repair but also a slow and fiddly task. Many small businesses avoid it altogether.
The robotic system is equipped with a robotic arm, a dedicated toolbox, and a camera. It utilises AI and visual recognition to adapt to various laptop models, remove plastic protectors, unscrew screens, and carefully detach them.
At the moment, the system has been trained on two laptop models, but the ambition is to expand and adapt to many more. The project is part of the RoboSAPIENS initiative and is aimed at giving refurbishers the tools to scale their work and reduce waste.
The goal is to create a scalable solution that supports local Danish tech refurbishment businesses, enabling them to process more units efficiently and sustainably.
The Impact
The potential impact is clear. Replacing a laptop screen for resale can generate around €200. Recycling a whole laptop by breaking it down for materials yields closer to €10. By focusing on refurbishment rather than disposal, the value recovered is much greater.
There are other benefits too. Extending device lifespans reduces overall waste. Automating tasks minimises exposure to hazardous materials like lead and mercury.
Key facts at a glance:
- Screen replacement resale value: ~€200
- Full-device recycling recovery: ~€10
- Current e-waste recycling rate: ~22%
Challenges
Despite its promising potential, the development of AI-driven robotic systems for e-waste recycling faces several challenges. The vast diversity of hardware, components, and device models requires AI systems to continuously learn and adapt. Modern design choices, such as glued rather than screwed components, make disassembly harder and risk damaging parts.
This project highlights how technology can reframe e-waste from being a global burden into a source of opportunity. By bringing AI and robotics into recycling, there is a chance to recover more value, support sustainable businesses, and create a circular economy where electronics are repaired and reused rather than thrown away.
We’re excited to see what’s next in the world of robotics.
For more information on Denmark’s robotic e-waste recycling initiative, visit The Next Web.
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