Our Vision is to Become the Global Standard for Battery Lifecycle Management: Felix Wagner, CEO of Circunomics

Circunomics is a Circular Intelligence Platform transforming the battery economy by predicting when batteries are ready for reuse or recycling, evaluating their circular value, and connecting them with suitable buyers and recyclers. By enabling scalable digital processes, Circunomics facilitates the transition of millions of batteries into secondary applications and recycling with 10x greater efficiency than existing solutions. As the builder of the world’s largest virtual battery recycling and second-life network, the company currently manages 1.5 GWh of spent batteries and 5,000 tons of recycling capacity. Addressing one of the most significant and profitable challenges of the Circular Economy, Circunomics is driving innovation and sustainability in battery lifecycle management.

In a recent interview with SME Business Review, Felix Wagner, CEO & MD of Circunomics, discussed the company’s innovative approach to battery lifecycle management, its role in advancing the circular economy, and his vision for a more sustainable energy future. Here’s what Mr. Wagner had to say.

Interview Excerpts

What motivated you to establish Circunomics?

The inspiration came from witnessing the massive environmental and economic challenges posed by battery waste. With the growing adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy, I saw an opportunity to create a platform that doesn’t just manage batteries but transforms how we think about their lifecycle. At Circunomics, we believe batteries are more than consumables—they’re assets that can be reused, recycled, and reimagined.

How does Circunomics bridge the gap between sustainability and technology?

Our platform integrates advanced data analytics, blockchain, and predictive modeling to deliver actionable insights. By tracking batteries from production to end-of-life, we ensure they’re reused and recycled efficiently. It’s about bringing transparency and trust into the process while making it seamless for businesses to adopt circular practices. We’ve built an ecosystem that connects manufacturers, recyclers, and energy providers, allowing them to collaborate effectively.

How does Circunomics contribute to reducing the environmental impact of batteries?

Our goal is to maximize the value of every battery while minimizing waste. By extending battery lifecycles and promoting reuse, we reduce the demand for new resources like lithium and cobalt, which are often mined under challenging environmental and ethical conditions. At the same time, we help companies recover critical materials through recycling, ensuring they re-enter the supply chain. It’s a win-win for businesses and the environment.

What challenges have you faced in building a circular economy for batteries?

One major challenge is changing mindsets. Many businesses still see batteries as disposable, rather than valuable assets. Educating the market about the economic and environmental benefits of reuse and recycling has been a priority for us. Another hurdle has been aligning different stakeholders—manufacturers, recyclers, and second-life users—who have varying goals. But with the right technology and partnerships, we’re breaking down those barriers.

What drives your personal passion for sustainability?

I have always believed that business can be a force for good. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity for our future. Growing up, I saw how finite our planet’s resources are and realized that innovation is the key to preserving them. At Circunomics, I am fortunate to work at the intersection of technology and impact, where we can create tangible change every day.

How do you ensure collaboration among various stakeholders on your platform?

Collaboration is built into our DNA. Our platform acts as a neutral ground where manufacturers, recyclers, and energy providers can exchange data and work toward shared goals. By making the process transparent and secure, we encourage trust and participation. Our technology simplifies complexities, so everyone benefits—whether they’re recovering materials, reusing batteries, or improving efficiency.

What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs passionate about sustainability?

Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect solution. Start where you are and focus on solving one problem at a time. Sustainability is a vast field, but every small step counts. Build a strong team, stay curious, and be open to collaboration. Most importantly, stay true to your values—because when you combine purpose with action, the impact can be remarkable.

How do you maintain balance while leading such an impactful company?

It’s not always easy, but I believe in taking a long-term view—both for Circunomics and myself. I make time to step back, reflect, and recharge. My team plays a big role too; they’re incredibly driven and aligned with our mission. Knowing that we’re all working toward something bigger than ourselves keeps me motivated and grounded.

What legacy do you hope to leave with Circunomics?

I want Circunomics to be remembered as a catalyst for change in the energy sector—a company that didn’t just talk about sustainability but made it practical and accessible. If we can inspire other businesses to adopt circular practices and contribute to a cleaner, more equitable future, then I’ll know we’ve done our part.

How do you see Circunomics evolving in the next five years?

Our vision is to become the global standard for battery lifecycle management. In the next five years, I see us expanding our platform’s capabilities, building more partnerships, and scaling our solutions to reach every corner of the energy ecosystem. We want to enable a world where battery waste is a thing of the past, and circular practices are the norm.

Felix Wagner, CEO & MD, Circunomics

I want Circunomics to be remembered as a catalyst for change in the energy sector—a company that didn’t just talk about sustainability but made it practical and accessible.