Task 2 of the IEA Project 65, focusing on “Heat Pumps in a Circular Economy,” is centered on gathering information on national and international initiatives related to material efficiency and circular economy. This task involves several key activities:

  1. Collection of Information on take-back strategies: Gathering data on national take-back strategies for heat pumps and their components.
  2. Research Projects Mapping: Documenting relevant research projects that focus on circularity and sustainability within the domestic heat pump sector.
  3. Information Distribution: Collecting and disseminating the most recent information on circular economy and material efficiency from the European Commission and other authoritative bodies, which influence product design in heat pumps.
  4. Business Model Mapping: Outlining current business models for circular economy practices related to heat pumps in the participating countries.

This task aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the existing national initiatives, standardization schemes, and research projects to improve the circularity of heat pumps, which will be crucial for subsequent tasks that evaluate potential and develop best practices within the circular economy framework.