ESGL Files Patent to Strengthen IP Protection for Precious Metal Recovery Technology

According to a company announcement, ESGL Holdings Limited has filed a provisional patent with the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) to safeguard its proprietary technology for recovering precious metals from industrial waste streams. The application, submitted through its subsidiary Environmental Solutions Asia Pte Ltd (ESA), marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its intellectual property portfolio and advance sustainable waste management solutions.

It is understood that the provisional patent, registered under Reference No. 10202502909X, covers a process developed to treat acidic waste streams, particularly from the semiconductor sector. According to the company, the technology is the result of more than two years of focused R&D and has now been successfully commercialized, enabling the recovery of high-grade precious metal concentrates from semiconductor acid waste. The process combines high-temperature treatment with advanced resin systems to achieve efficient metal extraction with a reduced environmental footprint. The recovered concentrates are later refined into pure precious metals by ESGL’s partner refineries.

“This patent filing marks an important milestone in strengthening the protection of our technology,” said Lawrence Law, Executive Director of ESGL. “By turning semiconductor waste into valuable precious metal concentrates, we’ve proven that innovation can go hand in hand with sustainability and economic value creation.”

According to data from Market Research Future, as cited by ESGL, the global precious metals e-waste recovery market was valued at approximately US$20.76 billion in 2024 and is projected to continue growing through 2032, supported by rising demand from the electronics and semiconductor industries. Reports indicate that the Asia-Pacific region will remain at the forefront of this expansion, driven by strong manufacturing activity and growing investments in recycling infrastructure.

Industry observers note that ESGL’s development arrives at a time when regulators across Asia are tightening controls on industrial and hazardous waste treatment while promoting circular economy initiatives. By integrating advanced recovery technologies into production systems, companies like ESGL are helping reduce dependency on mined metals and turning waste into new sources of economic value.

According to the company, ESGL plans to explore further applications of its recovery technology across other high-value industrial waste categories, reinforcing its long-term commitment to innovation, sustainability, and shareholder value creation.

Source: ESGL Holdings Limited