METALLICO Young Researchers: Cinzia Capitano

Recovering valuable raw materials, demonstrating sustainable production or developing innovative technologies: Many young researchers are doing their part to achieve the goals of the METALLICO project. They are highly motivated and passionate about their work. One of our "METALLICO Young Researchers" is Cinzia Capitano. She is a Post-doc for “Environmental and social assessments of emerging technologies using LCA and s-LCA methodologies” at the University of Torino. Currently, she is iworking on assessing sustainability aspects, especially social aspects, related to innovative technologies for the recovery of critical raw materials within the METALLICO project. Read more about Cinzia and her motivation.

What is your motivation and what excites you the most about your work?

My motivation lies in contributing to the sustainable transition of Europe’s raw materials sector. What excites me most is the opportunity to work on cutting-edge solutions that combine innovation and responsibility. In METALLICO, I can integrate technical research with social and environmental assessment, ensuring that new technologies not only improve efficiency but also respect people and ecosystems. Being part of this process gives real meaning to my daily work.

Which impact do you think your research will have on the future?

I believe our research will help shape a more sustainable and resilient raw materials supply chain in Europe. By assessing technologies from both an environmental and social perspective, we provide evidence for more responsible choices. My hope is that this work will contribute to reducing Europe’s dependency on critical raw material imports, while promoting circularity, local value creation, and fairness across supply chains.

What opportunities does the research project METALLICO offer you as a young researcher in your early career?

As an early career researcher, METALLICO offers me a unique chance to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team across Europe. I gain access to knowledge, methodologies, and real case studies that broaden my skills and perspective. Working closely with industry, academia, and technology developers helps me connect research with practical impact, while also building an international network that will be crucial for my future career.

What is the best thing about your job as a scientist in the METALLICO project? 

The best part of my job is the diversity: one day I might be reviewing scientific literature, the next I am developing indicators or discussing with engineers about pilot plants. This constant variety keeps me motivated.

Can you tell us a funny/interesting story from your day-to-day research?

During a workshop, while discussing “critical” raw materials, someone asked if they were “critical” because they were dangerous to handle—reminding us how important it is to communicate science clearly to different audiences.

Find Cinzia on LinkedIn!