The primary objective of the CROCEMS project was to develop innovative training tools addressed to manufacturing sectors in the fields of collaborative robotics and Circular Economy and thus facilitate its integration and improve the skills and knowledge on this key technology and methodology for the upcoming years. The CROCEMS project successfully achieved its predefined objectives, which were as follows: SO1: Increasing quality in work through the design and development of new transversal and edge-cutting curricula on Collaborative Robotics and its use on waste management and Circular Economy. SO2: Creating flexible learning pathways and didactic tools based on the learning outcomes approach, able to provide, assess and recognise the key competences identified of the target groups. SO3: Delivering the training through a MOOC in different EU languages, providing innovative learning material and promoting the use of open and online learning. SO4: Promoting and using the information about the project outputs and outcomes across Europe for a wider exploitation that secure its impact. SO5: Ensuring the project sustainability after its end by assuring the access to project outputs to enable transformation and change.
Waste is defined by Directive 2008/98/EC Article 3(1) as "any substance or object which the holder discards, intends to discard, or is required to discard." This definition underscores the potential for significant resource loss, both in terms of materials and energy. In the manufacturing sector, the improvement of waste management practices is vital for reducing environmental impacts and aligning with EU waste policy objectives as traditional waste management methods also pose serious environmental risks. Circular Economy principles, Lean Robotics Methodology and Collaborative Robotics offers a technological solution for enhancing efficiency and sustainability. The ultimate goal of CROCEMS was to deliver a comprehensive training program on applying Collaborative Robotics to Circular Economy processes. By promoting efficient waste management in the EU manufacturing sector, CROCEMS helped to reduce environmental impacts, create job opportunities and enable innovative manufacturing processes and business models. The key needs that CROCEMS plans addressed were skill gap in manufacturing, technological advancement, job creation and economic growth, and last, but not least, alignment with EU policies such as Green Deal.