What is the WEEE directive?
WEEE stands for Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment. It is an EU directive aimed to reduce the impact of electronic waste on the environment. At least 1 million tonnes of electronic waste from homes and businesses is discarded every year, a figure that is estimated to be growing by 4% annually. The WEEE legislation means that electrical and electronic equipment can no longer be sent to landfill sites, and must be recycled instead.
What items are affected?
All electrical items are affected such as:
- IT and telecommunication equipment (e.g. computers, photocopiers, telephones)
- Consumer equipment (e.g. televisions, video recorders, hi-fi equipment)
- Lighting equipment (e.g. fluorescent lamps, discharge lamps)
- Medical equipment systems (e.g. radiotherapy equipment, ventilators)
- Monitoring and control equipment (e.g. thermostats, control panels)
- Automatic dispensers (e.g. drinks machines)
- Large household appliances (e.g. fridges, washing machines)
- Small household appliances (e.g. vacuum cleaners, toasters, irons)
- Electrical and electronic tools (e.g. drills, sewing machines) s
- Toys, leisure and sports equipment (e.g. video games and consoles).
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Who does it apply to?
The law applies to everyone who uses electronic equipment, whether it's at home or at work. It also places legal requirements on manufacturers and retailers of electrical goods. |
