Why standards matter for Europe’s magnet recycling future

Recycling rare earth magnets is not only a technical challenge. It also needs trust, shared language, and clear rules.

A new article discusses why magnet recycling standards matter for Europe’s climate goals and industrial competitiveness. It features insights from Cristina Hernán Hernán from Asociación Española de Normalización, the Spanish standards body and a HARMONY partner.

The article focuses on short-loop recycling for NdFeB magnets. This approach aims to recover and reuse magnet materials with fewer processing steps. As a result, it can help reduce energy use, waste, and dependence on imported raw materials.

However, recycling routes need common terminology, technical requirements, and clear guidance on safety and environmental protection. Standards can help provide this foundation. They can also give companies more confidence when investing in new recycling processes.

Within HARMONY, partners are working across the full magnet recycling value chain. This includes collection, dismantling, material recovery, magnet production, and validation in real applications.

Together, these efforts support a more circular and competitive European magnet industry.

To read the full article and gain deeper insights into the future of magnet recycling, visit DirectIndustry Emag here.