Training for Professionals and Entrepreneurs on ECO-Innovation in Electronics Product Development

Waste from the electronics industry, known as e-waste, is an ever-increasing problem for Europe and the world.
Source: Wismar University of Applied Sciences

The main objective of the EU (Erasmus+) funded project is to develop training materials on eco-innovation for electronics professionals, small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups play an important role in the European economy and need to move towards sustainable business models to support the EU's efforts to build a green economy. For example, waste from the electronics industry, known as "e-waste," is an increasing problem for Europe and the world. Currently, however, employees of SMEs and start-ups lack the necessary training and skills to develop innovative and environmentally sound electronic products that comply with EU regulations. To remedy this, TRAIN-ECO has the following objectives:

  • Develop training material on eco-innovation leading to sustainable development and quality management in the development of electronic products
  • Produce training material on EU environmental and safety standards
  • Development of an open access online course (MOOC) that comprehensively covers the above topics
  • Creation of shorter e-modules on these topics and an open repository of project materials
  • Develop guidelines for VET providers on how to integrate the project's learning materials into flexible training programs and courses

The project objectives have been defined in recognition of the specific needs of electronics professionals and companies. As working professionals often lack the time to participate in longer-term training programs, TRAIN-ECO will pay special attention to creating flexible learning opportunities for this group, in particular through the development of an online course (MOOC) and a series of shorter e-modules on eco-innovation. In addition to employees of SMEs and start-ups, the project targets participants in continuing education programs, students of electrical engineering and vocational education and training, and adult education providers, who can use the TRAIN-ECO materials free of charge.

Project partners:

  • University of Tartu (Lead Partner), Estonia
  • Riga Technical University, Latvia
  • Centria University of Applied Sciences, Finland

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