Global leader in sustainable materials, EMR, is another step closer to creating a circular economy for end-of-life wind turbines with the recruitment of John McPhail as its new Energy Infrastructure Project Manager.
Working alongside Dr Charlotte Stamper – EMR’s Energy Infrastructure Lead – McPhail will manage the development of a supply chain that will see the materials used to construct modern wind turbines recovered, processed and – where possible – re-used by the renewable energy industry.
Approximately 90% of the material in these assets – including steel, aluminium and copper – is already recycled by companies such as EMR, but further innovation is required as the number of decommissioned wind turbines increases in the years ahead.
EMR recently launched “Re-Rewind”, a partnership that aims to establish a circular economy for the rare earth magnets used to construct both on-shore and off-shore wind turbines. The project brings together businesses, industry experts and academia, and McPhail will now lead the development of a series of new collaborative projects as the industry seeks to sustainably recycle even more of the material used to build the UK’s renewable power infrastructure.
While efforts to create sustainable recycling solutions are in line with EMR’s target to reach net-zero by 2040, the innovations developed by John and his team will also ensure Scotland’s reputation as a leader in renewable power is further enhanced.
John McPhail, Energy Infrastructure Project Manager at EMR, said:
“Scotland has an amazing opportunity to become a renewable energy superpower, thanks to the on-shore and off-shore wind turbines that have been installed here over recent decades. By ensuring that these assets are decommissioned and recycled in the most sustainable way possible, EMR is playing a vital role in this green transition – and it’s a mission I’m thrilled to now be a part of.
“Over 20 years in the construction industry, I have got to know the high standards to which EMR operates, but this new role is an opportunity to be part of the company’s pioneering future. Its focus on sustainability – and the investments it is making today – make EMR an exciting company to join as the UK heads towards net-zero.
“I have no doubt that EMR will achieve every one of its goals and create a fully circular supply chain for decommissioned wind turbines at commercial scale. I’m looking forward to working with Dr Charlotte Stamper, and the whole EMR team, to make this happen.”
