"Industry 4.0 is online. Growing adoption of automation, driven by hyper consumerism, generates an accelerating stream of e-waste 4.0. Now is the time for e-waste to undergo an upstream re-evolution. The thesis proposes an upstream circular network in Rochor that harnesses resources found in e-waste, in tandem with value creation, innovation and capacity building in the urban fabric. Urban mining repurposes existing infrastructure and grooms talent through e-entertainment, nurturing future ready innovators capable of making an impact in the e-waste ecosystem.

Presented in two parts, Salvager, serves as a first touch point for e-waste resuscitation through the adaptive reuse of surplus carpark spaces in Rochor. Redistribution markets and Repair Labs give used devices a second chance before obsolescence, while providing repair workshops that engage the community. Microfactories process, recover and transport components from dead tech to Elchemist as mobile spare parts for innovators, hackers and creatives.

A rebooted Sim Lim Square sets a new e-entertainment destination in the region, harnessing e-waste as an opportunity for innovation while capitalising a rapidly growing e-entertainment market. Transformed as a vertical street, a series of activity centres oversees the rebirth of parts as ""prosthetics"", repurposed as fresh hacks. From race drones, to robot gladiators, e-waste transforms liability to opportunity. An empowered maker is a transformed consumer. Moreover, it nurtures an ethics of resource sustenance. An upstream network unlocks new economies and collaboration towards a new circular era. "