THEME

The microelectronics industry is the foundation of modern technology, powering essential devices from smartphones to advanced computing systems. Nonetheless, this advancement has incurred considerable environmental expenses. As the demand for more powerful and efficient microelectronics increases, so too does the energy consumption, resource depletion, and development of electronic trash (e-waste) linked to their manufacturing.

Microelectronics manufacturing, particularly semiconductor fabrication and nanomaterial synthesis, is among the most resource-intensive industrial processes, consuming significantly more energy than conventional material processing. The business significantly relies on essential raw minerals like gallium and indium, which are at risk of supply constraints within the next two decades due to increased demand and limited natural reserves. The improper disposal of microelectronic components, including printed circuit boards and semiconductor chips, contributes to environmental pollution and potential emissions from hazardous substances, with global waste projections reaching 74.7 million metric tonnes by 2030.

The production of microelectronics has considerable environmental consequences, including resource extraction, high energy consumption, and toxic emissions. Semiconductor etching, an essential process, depends on fluorinated gases such as CF₄ and NF₃, which possess significant global warming potentials. It also generates wastewater pollutants, including PFAS, which threaten water quality and public health. The escalating problem of e-waste underscores the necessity for more sustainable procedures in microelectronics industries. 

The theme, "Synergising Chemical Engineering and Sustainable Microelectronics for a Greener Future," underscores the vital contribution of chemical engineering to promoting sustainability in the microelectronics sector. This theme promotes the integration of chemical engineering concepts with advanced green technologies, urging participants to create new, environmentally friendly solutions that mitigate environmental damage, enhance resource circularity, and foster a sustainable, low-carbon future. By addressing these challenges, this theme aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 13 (Climate Action), fostering a more sustainable and responsible future for the microelectronics industry.

Key focus areas include:

• Identifying and creating safer, sustainable alternatives to hazardous compounds in microelectronics manufacturing, thereby mitigating toxicity and environmental dangers.
• Developing and implementing energy-efficient and low-carbon manufacturing techniques that optimize resource utilization, minimize emissions, and enhance overall efficiency in microelectronics production..
• Implementing effective recycling and resource recovery systems to recover valuable materials, prolong the lifespan of microelectronic components, and advance towards a circular economy.

This theme utilises chemical engineering expertise to push participants to devise practical and significant ways that integrate sustainability with technological progress. By integrating chemical engineering with sustainable microelectronics, we can create a more environmentally responsible future for the microelectronics sector.