CSIR-NML Signs MoU with Eyantram Waste Management for PCB Recycling Technology Transfer
Jamshedpur, March 24, 2025: In a significant step towards sustainable e-waste management, CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (NML), Jamshedpur, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Eyantram Waste Management Private Limited, Visakhapatnam, for the transfer of Printed Circuit Board (PCB) recycling technology. This partnership aims to establish an environmentally friendly e-waste recycling plant, focusing on the extraction of valuable metals like gold (Au), copper (Cu), and aluminum (Al) from discarded PCBs.
The agreement, signed on Monday, will enable Eyantram Waste Management Pvt. Ltd. to implement the “Zero Waste” approach, reducing environmental pressure and streamlining the e-waste collection and disposal system. By organizing the unorganized sector, the company aims to create structured waste management solutions, ensuring effective recycling. Municipal bodies will also be able to collaborate with Eyantram for waste disposal, contributing to a cleaner environment.
Speaking on the occasion, Aashish Lohia, Director of Eyantram Waste Management, expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, "I am very excited to be part of this transformative initiative, bringing CSIR-NML’s PCB recycling technology to the forefront of e-waste management in India. Our goal is to create a pollution-free society while preserving precious natural resources for future generations."
The technology developed by NML is designed to efficiently recover high-purity metals while preventing contamination from toxic substances. The process includes mechanical pre-treatment of waste PCBs, followed by leaching, solvent extraction, and electro-winning techniques to extract metals with over 99.99% purity. This cost-effective, indigenous, and environmentally friendly technology presents a groundbreaking solution for India’s growing e-waste problem.
Dr. Sandip Ghosh Chowdhury, Director of CSIR-NML, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "NML has transferred several indigenous technologies to Indian companies, and we look forward to more partnerships in the future to make India an e-waste-free society."
Dr. Manis Kumar Jha, Chief Scientist and Project Head, highlighted the significance of the project in alignment with the Government of India's Cleanliness Mission, stating, "With the proper implementation of this technology, we can expect a cleaner environment and increased employment opportunities for youth."
The partnership will not only help reduce industrial waste pollution but also generate employment opportunities for educated youth. The PCB recycling sector holds immense potential for boosting India’s economy and fostering new startups in e-waste management. In the future, this technology can be scaled up for small-scale industries, allowing more entrepreneurs to enter the field.
The event was attended by senior officials and scientists from CSIR-NML, including Dr. Manis Kumar Jha, Dr. Sanjay Kumar, Dr. Jhumki Hait, Dr. Ankur Sharma, Dr. Rekha Panda, and Ms. Karina Rani, along with Dr. S.K. Pal and Dr. Beena Kumari, who contributed to the successful technology transfer. Dr. Anjani Kumar Sahu addressed the media on the future possibilities of e-waste recycling in India.
With this successful MoU, India moves a step closer to sustainable e-waste management, reducing its ecological footprint while recovering high-value metals for industrial use. This initiative is expected to drive innovation, create jobs, and pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.
