EPR
What is Extended Producer Responsibility Legislation?
EPR is an environmental protection strategy to reach an environmental objective of a decreased total environmental impact of a product, by making the manufacturer of the product responsible for the entire life-cycle of the product and especially for the take-back, recycling and final disposal.
The European Union, the USA and Canada have implemented product legislation to minimize the environmental impact when placing goods on the market. Electronics items become known as WEEE when they enter the waste stream and must be handled correctly, as must batteries and any packaging that the products were sold in.
Countries each have their own methods of ensuring producer responsibility, from fees based on quantities sold, the mandatory joining of a collective organisation or proof of products taken back by the producer. Accerio will assess your business model and advise and implement the best solutions for your company.
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European Directives
WEEE
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (2012/19/EU)
Requires producers to register in each country where they have obligations. It also requires them to report products placed on market as well as finance the collection and recycling or reuse of these goods at product end of life.
BATTERIES
The Battery Directive (2006/66/EC) amended by (2013/56/EU)
Requires end of life batteries to be recycled. Also prohibits or limits certain harmful substances in batteries and accumulators. Producers must register and finance the treatment of batteries placed on the market where they have legal obligations.
PACKAGING
The Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC)
Prohibits certain harmful substances in packaging. Requires producer financing of recycling and reuse of packaging materials.
North American Environmental Legislation
US
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is an independent agency of the United States federal government for environmental protection. However, most legislation is implemented state by state.
CANADA
Environment Canada is the regulatory authority in Canada for e-waste (general Info). This was achieved through the passage of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA 1999).
Do you need help determining your obligations?
Give us a call
- Do you have questions about global WEEE, batteries or packaging regulations?
- Do you need help understanding e-waste or manufacturer extended producer responsibility programs?
We can help you understand how these laws affect you. Call us and we will answer your questions.