The Queen’s academics have been awarded £2.3 million of the funding and their work will help to recover valuable critical metals which are essential for developing clean energy technologies and boosting Malaysia’s circular economy.

The other researchers are based in Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) and University of Malaya (UM).

The project is one of thirteen UK research projects that will address urgent global energy and climate challenges. They have been funded through the Ayrton Challenge Programme.

Professor Peter Nockemann will lead the team at Queen’s University Belfast. He comments: “I am delighted that our international team has secured this significant funding. By bringing together complementary expertise from Queen's University Belfast, Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) and University of Malaya (UM), we are uniquely positioned to develop innovative solutions for e-waste recycling.

“E-waste presents both an environmental challenge and an opportunity. This international collaboration combines our universities' complementary expertise in green chemistry, sustainable processing, and environmental management to develop innovative technologies for e-waste recycling.”

Professor Peter Nockemann adds: “Our approach introduces environmentally friendly technologies that can safely recover both critical metals and plastic materials from electronic waste. This avoids traditional harmful recycling methods, offering a sustainable solution that protects both the environment and worker safety, as well as supporting Malaysia's circular economy goals."

The Ayrton Challenge Programme promotes equitable partnerships between UK and in-country researchers to ensure projects are locally relevant and impactful. By networking with other initiatives under the wider Ayrton Fund, these projects aim to deliver scalable solutions to energy and climate challenges globally.

Frances Wood, UKRI International Director, said: “The Ayrton Challenge Programme demonstrates the power of research and innovation to address critical global challenges. These projects exemplify how equitable, interdisciplinary collaboration can unlock transformative solutions, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive energy future for all.”

For more information on the Ayrton Fund and its funded projects, click here.

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