Ask Jim about the WEEE directive
Jim Gracie, NQA’s Regional Director (North) answers questions about the WEEE directive and how it affects organisations………..
What is WEEE?
WEEE stands for ‘Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment’. This is one of the fastest growing waste streams in the UK and most of it ends up in landfill sites. It can cause hazardous pollution to the environment if it is not disposed of properly as many of the components of this type of equipment are hazardous. The legislation aims to reduce the size of the problem by encouraging reuse and recycling.
Who will the regulations affect?
If your organisation is involved in the manufacture, selling, distribution, recycling or treatment of electrical or electronic equipment or components, then the WEEE regulations will apply to you.
What will the regulations require?
If you are a producer you will need to register with your environmental regulator and provide certain information. As a supplier you will have obligations regarding the collection, treatment, recycling and recovery, and environmentally sound disposal of the waste arising from the supplied equipment. Finally, a business user will be responsible for the equipment and report evidence of its collection, treatment and recovery.
When will the regulations take effect?
According to the government’s latest timetable the WEEE regulations will be implemented in June 2006.
Where can I go for more information?
Information can be obtained from the regulators of WEEE which will be the Environment Agency in England and Wales, SEPA in Scotland and the Environment and Heritage Service in Northern Ireland. Also visit http://www.envirowise.gov.uk/ and http://www.netregs.gov.uk/ for more information and advice.
(Taken from NQA Reporter, Spring 2006)
JPD offer a one day Public course on WEEE called Producer Responsibility, for more information visit http://www.jpd.co.uk/courses/environmental.htm or call one of our friendly training advisors on 0870 438 2573.