Get wise on waste

One of the biggest challenges facing manufacturers and importers of electrical and electronic products is preparing for 'full producer responsibility' under the terms of the

, which was implemented this month.

The legislation has been introduced to control the growing problem of electrical waste entering landfill sites and provide a greater incentive for producers to consider the lifecycle of their products and opportunities for re-use and recycling.

Most products where electricity is the main power source — even those as simple as a lamp, alarm clock, video game or toaster — will need to meet the requirements of the directive, including those that are re-branded in the UK.

The regulations, which will impact on all producers regardless of their turnover, market share or number of employees, will become fully effective on 1 July.

Producers will then be responsible for financing the collection and treatment of their products at the end of their useful life. This applies across 10 main product categories including IT and telecoms, household appliances, medical electrical devices and selected sports and leisure equipment.