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Information on the return of electrical and electronic waste
in EU countries according to Directive 2002/96/EC, and its im-
plementation in respective national regulations
a) Reason and Purpose of Separate Collection
Users of electrical and electronic equipment are required to dispose of used devices sepa-
rately. Electrical and electronic equipment must not be disposed of together with unsorted
municipal solid waste (domestic refuse), as it contains a range of dangerous elements that
cause problems for waste management. Separate collection from regular municipal waste
is a prerequisite for the special treatment and appropriate recycling of electrical and elec-
tronic waste. This is essential, as many components of electrical and electronic devices are
damaging to the environment if they are not disposed of professionally. Disposing of the
devices along with unsorted municipal waste can cause harmful substances to enter the
waste flow. The consequence would be a considerable burden on the environment.
b) Significance the ‘Crossed-Out Wheelie Bin’
The crossed-out wheelie bin is the symbol for separate collection.
Electrical and electronic equipment marked with this symbol must not be
disposed of to-gether with municipal sorted waste (domestic refuse). Such
items can be handed in free of charge at public collection points.
c) Reuse, Recycling and Recovery
Electrical and electronic waste contains valuable raw materials such as iron, aluminum
and copper. These components must be treated selectively. A separate collection and a
selec-tive treatment are the basis for environmentally-friendly disposal and protection of
human health.
According to the particular terms, manufacturers are obligated to assume the costs associ-
ated with disposing of these devices as well as other obligations. This is to promote the
chief objectives of reuse and recycling. For this to be possible, consumers must dispose of
used devices that are no longer needed at communal collection points. Actively using these
return and collection systems contributes to the reuse, recycling and recovery of electrical
and electronic equipment and protects the environment.
d) Weight
Information on the weight of the acquired product can be found on the item list as well as
on the packaging.
Note
