WEEE Directive

The UK generates around 1.9 million tonnes of Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) each year from domestic and commercial sources. Everyone should be aware that under the WEEE Directive, as from 1 July 2007, it is illegal to dispose of waste electrical and electronic equipment into Landfill.

The Directive affects producers, distributors and recyclers of electrical and electronic equipment and encompasses everything from electronic games, calculators, toasters and kettles to audio equipment, fridges, washing machines, commercial and industrial equipment. When put into landfill, WEEE relinquishes its toxins and pollutes the environment. The EU introduced a directive aimed at reducing WEEE, encouraging reuse, recovery of its base materials and reducing the environmental impact of disposal. The directive has passed into law in all member states.