WEEE stands for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment.
What is WEEE?
WEEE is any electrical device or piece of electronic equipment which no longer works. WEEE is defined as any equipment which relies on electric currents or electromagnetic fields to function properly.
How do I know if an item is considered WEEE?
WEEE can typically be identified by the presence of a WEEE symbol on an electrical product. Generally, there are 3 important questions to which if the answer to any is “yes” confirms the product is most likely WEEE:
Does it have a plug?
Does it use batteries?
Does it use a charger?
What is exempt from the WEEE directive?
Military and security WEEE, including arms, munitors, or war material for military purposes.
Filament bulbs are exempt however all other lighting is WEEE applicable
Equipment designed to be sent into space
Large scale stationary industrial tools
Transport vehicles
Equipment specifically designed for research and development
Medical instruments, including devices which could become infective
What is the WEEE directive?
The WEEE directive is a European directive integrated into U.K. law to ensure any company producing or distributing electronic company must be disposing of it correctly, including WEEE recycling. The onus of the directive is on those producing and distributing the waste.
When did the WEEE directive come into effect?
The Waste Electric and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations 2013 came into effect in U.K. law in January 2014.
What is the point in the WEEE directive?
The directive was designed to primarily reduce the amount of electronic waste reaching landfill. WEEE waste can carry hazardous materials when not disposed of correctly which can be dangerous to users or the environment. The directive also aims to challenge producers to improve design and recycling rates in equipment for sustainable growth in future production. The directive also aligns with government recycling and carbon reduction targets.
Is WEEE legislation applicable to businesses?
Yes, all WEEE legislation applies to personal and professional use. WEEE guidelines are enforceable on sellers of WEEE equipment also.
