WEEE DIRECTIVE

The WEEE directive is a complex directive set out by the ECC in 2003 and can be read about on Wikipedia. It set the tone for what we all take as the normal in todays world. Pre 2003 it was perfectly acceptable for anyone (including companies) to dispose of waste electronic equipment in any way they saw fit. Landfill, incineration – it didn’t matter.

Just get rid of the old and make room for the new. After decades of waste generated by this activity and a multiple of nasties seeping out from the hazardous into the ground and into the water table, it was announced that the WEEE directive was being implemented and each country had a target of 4KG of Waste Electronic and Electronic Equipment per head to recycle.

Not only did this encompass things like microwaves, toasters, hair dryers, fridges and other household items, but it also included office equipment such as PC’s, laptops, servers and printers.

Things have moved on from 2003, and that target has been made up to 20KG per head. It’s unthinkable to comprehend a world where that sort of activity could occur, but sadly it still does. Some companies and individuals continue to neglect their responsibility in an effort to save a few pounds or hours.

At Secure IT Services, we believe in recycling 100% of what can be recycled and doing the best job we can to pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.