STEP Initiative

The Sustainable Electronics Platform

Electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams in the world, posing significant environmental, health, and resource challenges by releasing hazardous substances, wasting valuable raw materials, and placing a heavy burden on societies with limited recycling infrastructure.

STEP’s mission is to drive sustainable solutions for electronics by uniting diverse stakeholders and fostering collaboration across research, policy, and industry. With its unique focus on both global policy dialogues and local implementation, particularly in the low-and middle-income economies, STEP seeks to reduce environmental impacts, support safe recycling practices, and promote circular economy opportunities.

 

DURATION: 2025 – Ongoing

SCOPE: Global

FOCUS AREA: Circular electronics & e-waste management

Revitalisation of STEP under WRFA

Since 2004, the STEP Initiative (previously Solving the E-waste Problem) has been a global, multi-stakeholder platform bringing together producers, recyclers, researchers, governments, and international organizations to advance sustainable solutions across the entire electronics value chain.

In 2025, STEP entered a new phase as being hosted by the World Resources Forum Association (WRFA), revitalizing its strategy and strengthening its role as a leading voice in circular electronics and e-waste management worldwide.

 

Project Scope

Through its new strategy, STEP will focus on:

Research

Generating and sharing scientific insights to inform policy, guide innovation, and support practical solutions to unsustainable electronics.

Strategy and Goal-Setting

Defining realistic targets and approaches adapted to diverse markets and regions, while advancing the global vision of a circular electronics economy.

Training and Development

Building capacity through webinars, workshops, and tailored programmes that empower recyclers, policymakers, and innovators worldwide.

Communication and Awareness

Raising visibility of the e-waste challenge by sharing best practices, publishing insights, and engaging stakeholders across digital and public platforms.

Our Work

Partnership models between the informal and the formal sector

Business Plan Calculation Tool

Partners

Stay tuned

Stay tuned as STEP embarks on a new chapter—expanding its global reach, strengthening collaborations, and driving solutions for sustainable electronics. Follow our journey for the latest updates, events, and insights, and discover how your organization can be part of the movement to tackle the e-waste challenge.