KMWE contributes to circular chip production through Brabant innovation coalition
Brabant takes the lead in sustainable chip production
The Province of Noord-Brabant and a group of high-tech companies have jointly invested over 4 million euros in the innovation coalition Circular Semicon (ICCS). With 2 million euros of government funding, this partnership aims to boost the circular transition within the semiconductor industry through practical projects and long-term collaboration. The initiative is co-led by Brainport Industries, ImpactX and the BOM (Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij), in close cooperation with both industry and academia.
Stronger together: a coalition of industrial and academic leaders
ICCS brings together major industry players like ASML, VDL Enabling Technologies Group (ETG), Prodrive Technologies, Neways Electronics International NV, ERIKS, HQ Pack, Royal Meilink en Aalberts N.V.. It also includes knowledge partners such as TNO, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Eindhoven Engine en Fontys Hogeschool. KMWE plays an active role in this collective effort, contributing its expertise in high-tech manufacturing, service, repair, and reuse.
KMWE’s role in driving circularity
Within ICCS, one of the key projects is the development of a triage centre. This facility will inspect, test, and repair high-tech machine components, preparing them for high-value reuse. The goal: to keep valuable parts in circulation, reduce waste, and build a more robust supply chain. KMWE contributes with knowledge, experience, and production capacity—supporting this initiative with practical solutions from both manufacturing and aftermarket perspectives.
Looking ahead to 2026
The triage centre and supporting tools will be developed over the coming years. First results from ICCS are expected in 2026. This marks a concrete step towards a more autonomous, resource-efficient and resilient European chip ecosystem.
Click here to the article in Dutch
