Conference examines opportunities created by the Circular Economy

In January 2018, a Circular Economy Package was introduced by the EU to help businesses and consumers make the transition to a stronger and more resourceful economy. As it stands, the throw-away society we are transitioning from is not sustainable. The circular economy aims to ‘minimise waste through reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products.’

The servicing and repair industry for electrical and mechanical equipment, which the AEMT represents, is primed to make the most of this economy.

A series of keynote talks at the AEMT conference will focus on how industry is looking for ways to keep equipment going as long as necessary, extract the maximum value whilst in use, then recover and regenerate products and materials at the end of each service life.

Speakers include the Copper Alliance, who promote the sustainable use of copper in industry. As the majority of rotating electrical equipment contains this popular metal, the Alliance will examine how the global demand for copper is increasing, and what can be done to manage the demand.

The AEMT will be looking at the reasons why a repair is a worthwhile consideration over replacement in terms of economic and environmental impact. They will also be looking at the upcoming international repair standard IEC 60034-23 and how service centres can prepare themselves to repair equipment to the standard.

Si2 partners are consultants specialising in leveraging clients’ services to make the most of industrial markets. They will be speaking on the state-of-play of digital technology and how it will influence the service and repair industry, how the service industry’s competitive space is changing, and how service providers can defend their business with technology.

Major motor manufacturer ABB will be attending to present on preventative maintenance and the impact of digitalisation on electromechanical drivetrains.

Breakout sessions and display stands will be available for visitors throughout the day. The conference will be followed by the AEMT Awards in the evening.