WEEE Directive

With the directives being law the timetable is set -

Publication was on 13 February 2003
Directives to be transposed into UK law 13 August 2004
Producers’ financial responsibility starts from 13 August 2005
RoHS substances ban comes into effect 1 July 2006
The UK must ensure at least 250,000 tonnes of WEEE is separately collected by 31 December 2006.
Producers must ensure the recycling targets are met by 31 December 2006.
Major Delays now June 2007 before law
More information : To obtain a copy of the consultation paper you can visit www.dti.gov.uk/sustainability where you can download a copy in PDF format. If you would prefer a hard copy telephone Paul Creary on 0207 215 5824 or e mail paul.creary@dti.gsi.gov.uk.

FAQs

What do WEEE, EEE and RoHS stand for?

EEE = Electronic and Electrical Equipment
The work studying the increase use of environmentally friendly materials reducing landfill.

WEEE = Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment
The directive that will control the disposal of Equipment and the percentage going to landfill.

RoHS = Restricting the use of Hazardous Substances
The directive that will control the use of hazardous substances during manufacture.

Does WEEE apply to all electrical goods?

The WEEE legislation covers all large and small household appliances, IT equipment, radio and audio equipment, electrical tools and telecommunications equipment.

What are the requirements of the directive?

Separate collection of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment from households and businesses
Producers do not have to collect themselves but must have 'End of life' plans for all products and finance the treatment and recovery of WEEE
Recovery and recycling to set targets
Retailers to offer free take back working with the producers
Accurate records to show the effect of the recycling programmes

Whose responsibility is it to ensure the goods are disposed of in accordance with the legislation?

The producer or importer of the goods is responsible for their disposal in line with the WEEE guidelines.

When will it happen?

The directives be will enacted 2002 and be enforceable in 2004/5. Now delayed till June 2007

Will it happen or will it get voted down?

It has already been passed and it is only the detail that is being discussed. It cannot be ignored it will effect all Electronic/electrical manufacturers and importers within the EU.

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