The Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) is a leading interdisciplinary research institute of the ETH Domain, linking cutting-edge research in materials science and technology to practical applications with the goal of addressing the key challenges facing industry and society. An efficient technology transfer in close cooperation with industrial partners results in marketable innovations and customized solutions that not only strengthen their innovative capacity and international competitiveness but also help improve quality of life for the public at large. A careful use of natural resources and the pursuit of closed material cycles are central to our approach: Empa – the Place where Innovation Starts.

Empa’s vision serves as a guiding beacon for all our activities, showing us where we aim to go and what we strive to achieve. To meet the complex challenges that lie ahead, it will be essential to develop sustainable and resilient solutions through science and technology. At Empa, we are committed to outlining pathways toward a livable future for generations to come.

The Laboratory of Sustainability Robotics at Empa, along with its Competence Centre for Sustainability Robotics, contribute to this vision by developing robotic systems and automation technologies that enable sustainable practices across the entire lifecycle of materials and products. The lab focuses on robotic solutions for circular economy challenges, such as automated disassembly, repair, refurbishment, and material recovery. By combining advanced robotics, AI-driven perception, and materials science, the laboratory aims to create intelligent systems that help extend product lifetimes, reduce waste, and support resource-efficient industrial processes.