Waste Electrical and Electronic

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations 2006

The regulations became law on 2nd January, 2007. The deadline for joining a compliance scheme is 15th March. I understand that our local authority has appointed an enforcement officer.

There appears to be some confusion as to what exactly constitutes WEEE, as I understand it, even a simple device, such as a battery operated torch, or a USB cable, will be enough to place a retailer under the scope of the regulations!

These are the categories that form the major scope of the regulations:- large household appliances; small household appliances ;IT & telecommunications equipment; consumer equipment; lighting equipment; electrical and electronic tools; toys, leisure and sports equipment;medical devices; monitoring and control equipment; automatic dispensers.

You have two options: (i) Instore takeback - you will have the bother of disposing of the goods yourself at whatever cost the local amenities site decides to levy, or (ii) Join a reputable compliance scheme. I wouldn't suggest taking the 'heads in the sand' approach in the hope that enforcement won't occur!

The DTI appointed compliance scheme operator is Valpak https://www.valpak.co.uk/Default.aspx?referer=uk.ask.com

It will cost around £300 (less if you have a trade organisation to negotiate on your behalf), for what is effectively exemption from prosecution until 2009.

I have included some links to DTI, DEFRA and The Environment Agency for your perusal

http://www.dti.gov.uk/consultations/page32448.html

http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/waste/topics/electrical/index.htm

http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/

Though not directly involved, here's a link to KEEP WALES TIDY http://www.keepwalestidy.org/

I can now confirm that the person responsible for enforcement with our local authority is Peter Laugharne.