Techno Bits

Two forthcoming European Union (EU) Directives will push criteria on 'producer responsibility'. These are the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and Restrictions on the Use of Hazardous Substances (ROHS).

The Directives are intended to increase the refurbishment and recycling of a wide range of old electrical appliances - from toasters and TVs to laptops and lawnmowers - grouped into ten broad categories such as "large household appliances" and "consumer equipment". Many British companies are already putting measures in place to minimise the financial burden they may face under WEEE and ROHS before August 2004, the proposed date for the directives to be transposed into national law.

The Regulations will affect a huge number of companies, in particular equipment manufacturers and importers, as well as retailers.

Posted - June 6, 2003