The WEEE Directive encourages and sets criteria for the collection, treatment, reuse, recycling and recovery of WEEE. It is designed to change the way old electrical equipment is disposed of.
By recycling more and tightening up the treatment of waste, ensuring that any hazardous materials are removed and prevented from entering the environment, the WEEE Directive aims to help conserve natural resources and cut down on water and air pollution from WEEE by more than half.
The Directive was implemented in the UK through two sets of regulations:
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The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2006 – came into force on 2nd January 2007 and implement most aspects of the WEEE Directive in the UK.
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The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (Waste Management Licensing) (England and Wales) Regulations 2006 – came into force on 5th January 2007 and cover England and Wales, dealing with the site licensing requirements and WEEE treatment requirements of the WEEE Directive.
Similar but separate legislation will be introduced in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
With implications for manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers, local authorities and consumers, amongst others, of electrical and electronic equipment – including smoke detectors, household appliances, IT and telecoms equipment, audiovisual equipment (TV, hi-fi, video), lighting, electrical and electronic tools, toys, leisure and sports equipment – it is the Producers (a manufacturer, importer, exporter or distributor, but also sometimes a retailer) who will be made legally responsible for financing the safe disposal of WEEE. The legislation applies to household and non-household products, with the full take back, treatment and recycling systems having to be in place from 1st July 2007.