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E[co]work is a co-working facility for e-waste dismantlers
E[co]work facilities are innovative and affordable co-working spaces for micro entrepreneurs in the e-waste recycling sector.
A first pilot space will be implemented and showcased in Delhi, India.
With E[co]work, a new concept is born that aims to bridge the gap between the informal recycling sector, safe working environment and the legal system. Based on the model of a co-working space, E[co]work offers an actual physical working place that is safe and in line with the legal requirements that can be rented on a ‘pay-per-use for space’ or ‘pay-per-use for services’ scheme. The business will also provide machineries for more efficient processing and guarantee safe working practices. The dismantlers benefit by gaining access to a wider market through their formalized status, can improve on their work efficiency and receive additional services such as training, healthcare, insurance, banking services and more. The E[co]work approach has never been tried before and provides immense potential for improving livelihoods and health of millions of people, reduce environmental burdens, contribute to a circular economy and the achievements of the SDGs.
Licensed work space
The E[co]work Space will provide a legal work environment and allow micro entrepreneurs to familiarize themselves with formal recycling technologies and practices.
Proper technologies
The E[co]work Space will provide access to appropriate tools, machines and equipment’s for formal e-waste recycling, which are currently inaccessible to the micro entrepreneurs.
Business support
E[co]work will act as an incubator for the micro-entrepreneurs, and support their move from the informal to formal sector. The space will also facilitate access to banking, finance, medical and insurance services.
Designed as viable business model.
E[co]work is not a charity. The business model is designed in a way that turns a profit for the company, whilst also remaining affordable for the dismantlers.
The profits will be used within company itself, to pay for operational expenses and business developments.
Impact of the E[co]work Space
The E[co]work Space is designed to address the dismantlers needs, whilst providing access to high tech and eco-friendly recycling tools.
The space enables a shift in the dismantlers’ mindset, from shame to pride in their work. By providing shared infrastructure, E[co]work enables safer practices, improves incomes and social mobility. It contributes to environmentally sound disposal of hazardous fractions and closed material chains. Through proper ventilation systems, dust control and protection equipment the health conditions of the dismantlers, their family and their surrounding will be improved.
E[co]work directly contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals
Avoided spillage and increased control foster environmental sound dismantling practices and support a healthy and safe environment as well as the transition towards sustainable materials management. Society benefits from cleaner neighbourhoods reduced pollution and health improvements. For the dismantlers it further means no risk of business closure and thus contributes to ensure an income for the family.
E-waste is a global issue
Purchasing and wasting electronics has impacts worldwide. Supporting us to help prevent environmental pollution and create a healthy, safe and inclusive circular economy.