Shaping the future together

At the same time, we proactively initiate projects to close even more product and resource cycles. I would like to highlight our project Swiss PV Circle, for example. Together with the Bern University of Applied Sciences, the Swissolar Association and other partners from the solar industry, we are investigating how business models can be developed to extend the service life of PV modules. With SENS AI, we have also been using artificial intelligence for several years to bring more transparency to our flow of goods. We are not only setting a new global benchmark in eRecycling but also making a significant contribution to the digital transformation of the Swiss circular economy. 

In order for the transformation to succeed, it is essential for consumers to be involved in the effort. This includes using products for as long as possible, sharing them, reusing them and repairing them, as well as consistently separating, collecting and correctly disposing of products that can no longer be used. This is exactly where our awareness campaign for the proper disposal of e-cigarettes (vapes) comes in, or the national “Fire Hazard!” campaign, in which we, together with Swiss Recycle, Swico Recycling and Inobat, draw attention to the dangers of improper disposal of batteries and electronic devices. With our Circular Platform, we promote dialogue between manufacturers, importers, disposal partners and consumers.  In addition to comprehensive information, we also provide you with an effective tool for finding out how product cycles can be closed as efficiently as possible, all in keeping with our commitment to shifting from a throw-away society to one of sustainable consumption.

The variety of circular projects is vast, and I am proud of how our dedicated and qualified team of employees, supported by strong partners, consistently manages to not only recognise but also seize opportunities with keen insight and a spirit of innovation, thereby bringing new projects and campaigns to fruition. I would like to thank you, dear partners and dear colleagues, from the bottom of my heart for your tireless commitment to an intact environment. I would especially like to extend my sincere thanks to our Managing Director Pasqual Zopp, who drives our multifaceted business forward persistently, responsibly and with great foresight. I would also like to thank my esteemed colleagues from the Board of Trustees for their active commitment as well as their constructive and respectful cooperation. 

I firmly believe that we will achieve a lot together in the coming year and thereby help shape a future that is liveable also for the generations to come.

Warm regards,

Susanne Vincenz-Stauffacher

To maintain our high quality and secure the financing of our take-back system over the long term, we have revised the contractual bases between us and our service partners and updated our deed of foundation and regulations over the past year. One key element is the new investment regulations, which define our financing strategy on a sustainable basis. With a return of +2.7% between June and December 2024, the realignment under a new asset management system has already proven its usefulness.

Our industry solutions have also been a success. Almost all manufacturers and importers are part of the “heat pump” industry solution after the first full year of operation. Many installers and specialist dealers also appreciate the easy return and disposal of appliances by SENS and are now part of the network. Equally gratifying is the development within the VFAS industry solution. More and more car manufacturers and importers are taking advantage of this simple way to meet their legal obligation regarding traction batteries – which is clear evidence of the added value of our services.

Since 2024, we have offered our partners an exclusive SENS label that allows them to showcase their commitment to sustainable recycling – for the environment and a strong Swiss circular economy. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who are already using the label, thereby underscoring our joint commitment.

We warmly invite all other manufacturers, importers and installers of electrical appliances to become part of this strong network, which is characterised by diversity, drive and innovation: three success factors that we are proud of and that we will also build on in the new year in order to shape the future of eRecycling. I am already looking forward to many more exciting SENS projects that we will initiate together with you and new partners for the benefit of our environment. 

For SENS, the past year was marked not only by strong operational performance but also by a loss. Our founder, long-time President and later honorary President Dr Andreas Röthlisberger passed away. His passing marked the loss of not only the visionary architect of our take-back system but also a reliable companion and good friend for many years. His foresight, clarity and profound commitment to the environment and the good of society have enduringly shaped our work and our values. We are deeply grateful to him and carry on his legacy with great respect.

Kind regards, 
Pasqual Zopp