European Union : FAQ

Very fast growth can be observed in electrical and electronic equipment in nondurable consumer goods, and an equally fast increase in the corresponding wastes (3% to 5% per year). When they are incinerated, these wastes can release gases that are hazardous for health.

In order to contribute to the protection of human health and the environment, the European Union is implementing a policy of convergence of the Member States' legislation in this area, and has adopted two directives:

- Directives 2002/95/EC relating to Restriction on the use of certain Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS),

- and 2002/96/EC relating to waste EEE (WEEE).