The University of Miskolc, through its Institute for Raw Material Preparation and Environmental Processing, organized an interactive exhibition and educational programme under the title “RElight ME – E-waste in a New Light”, held on 24–25 November as part of the European Waste Reduction Week.
Electronic waste generated worldwide poses a major environmental challenge: due to its complex structure, it is difficult to manage properly, often contains hazardous substances, but at the same time hides valuable materials and modern industrial raw materials — such as copper, gold, silver, or rare earth elements. Recovering these materials is crucial not only from an environmental standpoint, but also from an economic perspective.
The Institute’s long-standing activity in raw-material recovery, waste processing, advanced process engineering, environmentally friendly technologies, and support for the circular economy has made it a key regional and national player in circular-economy solutions.
The RElight ME event, timed to coincide with Waste Reduction Week, offered the public a tangible opportunity to explore recycling possibilities. The central attraction was the travelling exhibition by MiReHu Nonprofit Kft. — titled “RElight” — which showcased in a visually striking way how discarded light sources and other electronic devices can gain a second life.
Complementing the exhibition were interactive scientific demonstrations: participants could examine LED chips and LCD glass under a microscope, try out magnetic and eddy-current separation equipment used in waste processing, and learn about fundamental technologies that underpin modern waste-treatment practices.
At each day’s conclusion, Dr. Sándor Nagy, director of the Institute of Raw Material Preparation and Environmental Processing, delivered a talk on conscious material use and recycling opportunities — emphasizing how everyone can contribute to building a more sustainable future.
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