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Recent advancements in semiconductor technologies have stimulated the growth of ultra-low power wearable devices. However, these devices often pose critical constraints in usability and functionality because of the on-device battery as the primary power source [1]. For example, periodic charging of wearable devices hampers the continuous monitoring of users' fitness or health conditions [2], and batteries and charging equipment have been identified as one of the most rapidly growing electronic waste streams [3]. To counteract the above-mentioned complications associated with the management of on-device batteries, wireless power transmission technologies capable of charging wearable devices in a completely unobtrusive and seamless manner have become an emerging topic of research over the past decade [4]. Researchers have instrumented daily objects or the surrounding environment with equipment that can wirelessly transfer energy from a variety of sources, such as Radio Frequency (RF) signals, laser, and electromagnetic fields [5]. However, these solutions require large and costly infrastructure and/or need to transmit a significant amount of power to support reasonable power harvesting at the wearable devices, which conflict with the vision of ubiquitously available and scalable charging support. 

Abstract Electronic waste is a global issue brought about by the short lifespan of electronics. Viable methods to relieve the inundated disposal system by repurposing the enormous amount of electronic waste remain elusive. Inspired by the need for sustainable solutions, this study resulted in a multifaceted approach to upcycling compact discs. The once-ubiquitous plates can be transformed into stretchable and flexible biosensors. Our experiments and advanced prototypes show that effective, innovative biosensors can be developed at a low-cost. An affordable craft-based mechanical cutter allows pre-determined patterns to be scored on the recycled metal, an essential first step for producing stretchable, wearable electronics. The active metal harvested from the compact discs was inert, cytocompatible, and capable of vital biopotential measurements. Additional studies examined the material’s resistive emittance, temperature sensing, real-time metabolite monitoring performance, and moisture-triggered transience. This sustainable approach for upcycling electronic waste provides an advantageous research-based waste stream that does not require cutting-edge microfabrication facilities, expensive materials, and high-caliber engineering skills.