Case Study - Circular electronics

Overview

Electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the fastest-growing environmental problems worldwide, largely driven by the short lifespan of modern smartphones. Every year, millions of these devices are discarded—despite still containing high-performance processors, sensors, and connectivity modules that are ideal for computing tasks. Jean-Brieuc Feron, founder of Citronics, identified this massive opportunity for sustainable tech innovation by giving a second life to retired smartphones.

Motivated by the principles of the circular economy and eco-friendly computing, Jean-Brieuc created Citronics to transform discarded smartphones into circular microcomputers. These devices are engineered for industrial applications in IoT (Internet of Things), edge computing, and smart environments, offering a low-cost and low-impact alternative to traditional embedded systems. By reclaiming existing hardware, Citronics significantly reduces the need for new electronic components, helping organizations lower their carbon footprint while embracing green technology.

Today, Citronics is leading the way in circular hardware innovation, scaling the production of recycled IoT devices for global use. From smart sensors to edge-based data processing units, these microcomputers deliver both performance and sustainability. With Citronics, companies can adopt sustainable computing solutions without sacrificing functionality—proving that environmental responsibility and high-tech performance can go hand in hand.

What we did