Edinburgh researchers license tech to extract gold and copper from electronic waste

The University of Edinburgh has licensed its Gold Copper Diamide Extraction (GCDE) process to Lithium Universe, enabling lower‑temperature, selective recovery of gold and copper from electronic waste. Lithium Universe will deploy and sub‑licence the technology globally as part of its Precious Metals Recycling Division, complementing its silver recovery work. The move could modestly increase secondary supply of gold and copper over time, improving margins for recyclers and advancing circular‑economy sourcing, while reducing energy and pollution from smelting. Near‑term price impact on XAUUSD is likely limited, but the development is positive for recycling firms and could exert mild downward pressure on scrap‑sensitive supply in the longer term. Environmental and cost advantages may accelerate adoption of urban mining solutions.