Get to know the Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive

The amount of electrical and electronic equipment waste generated in the EU every year is rising. Consisting of things like computer monitors, refrigerators and old cell phones, it is one of the fastest-growing waste streams.

In response, the EU has developed rules about WEEE to increase sustainable production and consumption, with a focus on the environment and human health. Discarding old electronics can involve many risks since this kind of waste consists of a complex blend of materials, including hazardous substances.

Many electronics also contain substances like gold, copper and aluminum which have the potential to be recycled and reused as part of a more circular economy.

Objectives

Preventing waste from electrical and electronic goods from being created

Ensuring resources are used efficiently and secondary raw materials, like precious metals, are recovered for reuse and recycling

Boosting the environmental performance of everyone involved in the life cycle of electric and electronic equipment

Actions

Electrical and electronic equipment waste will have to be separately collected and properly treated with the goal of reaching set targets that extend into recovery and recycling

Disguising illegal shipments of electrical and electronic equipment waste will be made more difficult, making it easier for countries to fight the problem

Electrical and electronic equipment registers will be harmonized across countries to diminish administrative burdens

How we can help

If you need help understanding the WEEE directive, please contact your Avery Dennison Smartrac representative for more information.

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Get to know the Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive

Where it applies

The Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive applies throughout the European Union.

What this means for you

How we can help