The prototype was compared to a standard cable of the same category made with virgin materials. The analysis covered the entire life cycle from raw material extraction to cable use. Engineers discovered a 76 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions during the manufacturing phase. There were also significant improvements across other sustainability indicators, such as resource depletion and freshwater use.

“This innovation demonstrates the technical feasibility of incorporating 100 percent recycled materials, while maintaining the same level of quality and safety as a cable made from virgin material,” says Jérôme Fournier, corporate vice president of innovation at Nexans. “[It] combines technical performance, industrial feasibility and a drastically reduced environmental footprint, marking a decisive step forward in circular economy.

“Industrial innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand,” claims Fournier. “It’s a major step toward a more sustainable electrification.”