The Sustainable Electronics Recycling International (SERI) has announced the opening of nominations for the 2025 ReThink Awards, a new initiative designed to celebrate organizations that are making significant strides in electronics sustainability. These awards focus on recognizing those who are not just improving existing processes but are fundamentally rethinking how the electronics industry approaches sustainability, from design to disposal.
Jeff Seibert, SERI’s Chief Provocateur, emphasized the need for a shift in perspective, stating that achieving a circular ecosystem for electronics requires more than incremental changes. It demands a complete overhaul of current practices and assumptions. The ReThink Awards seek to highlight and honor those who are leading this charge, whether through innovative design, manufacturing, refurbishing, recycling, or policy advocacy.
Nominations are open to organizations across the entire electronics value chain, regardless of geographic location. The criteria for evaluation include the originality of the approach, the measurable impact of the initiative, and its contribution to advancing electronics sustainability. Winners will be celebrated at the eSummit in Minneapolis, an event that gathers industry leaders to discuss and promote sustainability in electronics.
In a unique twist, the awards themselves are a testament to the theme of transformation. Created by found-object artist Steve Heller, the awards are made from repurposed electronic components, symbolizing the potential to turn waste into something valuable. This initiative not only recognizes achievements in sustainability but also serves as a catalyst for further innovation and collaboration across the industry.
The ReThink Awards represent a critical step forward in the global effort to make electronics more sustainable. By spotlighting groundbreaking approaches and fostering a community of innovators, SERI aims to inspire a movement towards a more sustainable and circular electronics industry. The deadline for nominations is June 30, 2025, offering organizations a chance to be recognized for their contributions to this vital cause.
