In our previous article, we explored how companies can make circular economy actionable, not as an abstract sustainability concept, but as a structured approach with clear priorities and realistic first steps.
This is exactly where many companies find themselves today. The relevance is understood, initial areas for action have been identified, and in many cases, there is already an internal roadmap in place. Yet in practice, we repeatedly see that implementation becomes far more challenging than expected.
Because between strategic planning and operational reality, a gap often emerges.
Particularly for manufacturers in the electrical and electronics industry, circular economy goes far beyond individual sustainability initiatives. Extended Producer Responsibility, take back schemes, regulatory requirements, and questions around product longevity and material use all have a direct impact on existing business processes. This is where complexity begins.
When Implementation Becomes Challenging
Circular economy rarely affects just one department. Product development, compliance, sustainability, procurement, and logistics are often working on the same topics, but with different priorities and perspectives.
This creates a situation we frequently observe, where everyone understands the importance of the topic but operational ownership remains unclear. Decisions are postponed, initiatives lose momentum, and projects remain in the planning phase far longer than intended.
At the same time, regulatory requirements surrounding Extended Producer Responsibility continue to become increasingly complex. Particularly for internationally active companies, managing different regulations across multiple markets can quickly become overwhelming. Many organisations wait for complete clarity before acting, but this often creates greater pressure down the line.
Operational measures are also frequently underestimated. Take back schemes are a good example. Internally, the concept is usually well received from the outset. However, once implementation begins, practical questions quickly arise. How can existing processes be integrated? Which partners are required? How can a solution operate efficiently without creating additional operational complexity?
Without prior experience, even well intended initiatives can quickly turn into highly demanding projects.
Why the Right Partner Matters
Another point many companies openly address is that circular economy is not part of their core business. As a result, there is often limited time, internal capacity, or specialised expertise available to build up regulatory and operational knowledge alongside day-to-day operations.
This is exactly where the value of the right partner becomes clear. Not simply someone who provides strategic advice but a partner who genuinely understands implementation and operational realities.
From our experience, projects are most successful when companies have someone by their side who can reduce complexity, create clarity, and define concrete next steps together with internal teams. Not theoretically but in a pragmatic and actionable way.
Whether it is EPR requirements, international regulatory challenges, or the development of take back schemes, the key is to create solutions that can realistically be integrated into existing processes and remain sustainable in the long term.
Circular economy is not something that can simply be managed on the side, and companies do not have to manage this transition alone.
At 1cc GmbH, we support companies in the electrical and electronics industry in implementing practical circular economy strategies that align with regulatory requirements. From the initial assessment of relevant obligations and EPR requirements through to the development and implementation of take back schemes and sustainability solutions, we support our clients throughout the entire process.
We do not see ourselves as traditional consultants but as a long-term partners who understands operational challenges and works closely with companies to develop solutions that genuinely function in practice.
Our goal is to reduce complexity, create clear structures, and help companies take the next steps with confidence and a realistic understanding of regulatory requirements, operational effort, and internal processes.
If your company is currently facing the challenge of advancing circular economy initiatives both strategically and operationally, we would be pleased to support you in identifying the right solutions for your business model.
Get in touch with us to discuss your current challenges surrounding EPR, take back schemes, and sustainable circular economy solutions.
