Electric industry forced by EU to recycle

Manufacturers and retailers of electric and electronic household goods will be made responsible for recycling their out-of-service products from August, without any cost to consumers.

Under EU environmental rules, householders will be able to return old fridges, microwaves, computers and other electrical items to the place of purchase, or a designated council site, free of charge.

The waste electrical and electronic equipment directive, which comes into force on August 13th, aims to dramatically reduce the amount of electronic and electrical materials going to landfill.

Announcing the introduction of the directive, Minister for the Environment Dick Roche said that dumped electrical products represented either an economic loss where they contained recyclable material, or a potential health risk once they began to degrade.

"Electrical waste is one of the fastest growing waste streams in Ireland. It is a source of valuable materials which can readily be recycled and which we must divert from landfill. This equipment can also contain hazardous substances which pose a threat to the environment and human health."

The directive requires producers to be responsible for financing collection, treatment, recovery and environmentally sound disposal of electronic and electrical goods.

Mr Roche conceded this would be a significant challenge to the industry, but he would not defer its implementation.

"While the directive imposes additional obligations on industry, I would urge the sector generally to take a broad perspective and appreciate the environmental benefits."

It could benefit manufacturers and retailers by providing "enhanced customer service opportunities" when consumers return old household goods.

Mr Roche said he intends to enforce strict penalties on those breaching the directive.

The Waste Management Act provide for penalties of up to €15 million or 10 years' imprisonment, or both, for noncompliance.