University of Liège

The University of Liège (ULiège) is a leading Belgian research institution with a broad expertise in science, engineering, and sustainability. Within ULiège, the GeMMe research group (Georesources, Mineral Engineering & Extractive Metallurgy) is a hub of excellence working on the characterization, sorting, and hydrometallurgical treatment of mineral and metallic resources. With deep roots in extractive metallurgy, GeMMe specializes in translating complex resource challenges into innovative, high-impact research and technological solutions.

In the context of UniGR-CIRKLA, ULiège (as lead partner) and GeMMe play a central role in fostering a cross-border, interdisciplinary centre of expertise on the circular economy for metals and materials. GeMMe contributes its core expertise in three key areas. First, it helps to map and recover critical raw materials, drawing on extensive experience with so-called “urban ores” (end-of-life products) via advanced characterization and sorting techniques. Second, it develops hydrometallurgical processes that enable resource-efficient recycling of metals vital to the energy and digital transitions. Third, GeMMe supports innovation and capacity-building within the Greater Region by participating in pilot projects, education, and cross-border knowledge sharing. Its participation aligns with broader goals of the CIRKLA centre to integrate ecological, economic, and social practices.

Beyond research, ULiège and GeMMe were deeply engaged in the education and dissemination pillars of CIRKLA. For instance, ULiège hosted the first "Circular Economy Research Forum"
in the framework of the UniGR event series "ECHO", bringing together early-career researchers to exchange ideas on circular material transitions. Since the winter semester 2025/26, students have also been able to enroll in the CIRKLA Certificate program (15 ECTS), co-designed by UniGR partners—including ULiège—to gain knowledge in circular entrepreneurship, resource efficiency, and life-cycle thinking.

By combining its deep technical capabilities with a strong commitment to cross-border collaboration, ULiège and GeMMe help to drive UniGR-CIRKLA’s mission: building a more sustainable, resource-smart Greater Region—uniting science, industry, and society to create closed-loop solutions across metals and materials.