Why this guidance has been developed
The Ministry for the Environment developed this guidance to improve the way waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is collected, handled and managed.
It provides information on how WEEE can be managed in a way that does not pose risks to human health or the environment and in a way that prevents potentially valuable resources in WEEE being lost.
This guidance sets out standards of operation for all businesses operating in the WEEE disposal chain.
While the guidance is not mandatory, those who handle electrical and electronic equipment are encouraged to adopt it to ensure:
- WEEE is collected in a way that allows it to be reused and recycled, meaning valuable resources are not lost
- minimum standards for collecting materials are followed, to ensure a high quality of recyclables which are acceptable for the reprocessing/refurbishing market
- WEEE is managed safely to reduce the risk of release of hazards into the environment
- health and safety risks associated with the reuse and recycling process are identified and minimised
organisations responsible for the disposal of WEEE have assurances that it is being dealt with appropriately - any requirements in the future for electrical or electronic products declared to be priority products under the product stewardship scheme can be implemented at least cost, whilst meeting the overall aim of minimum risk to human health and the environment
- appropriate reporting is adopted
- New Zealand aligns with good practice overseas for sound environmental management of electrical and electronic equipment.
The guidance has been initiated at a time of change in recycling in New Zealand. With the likely introduction of more WEEE recycling services, it is anticipated that the separate collection and treatment of WEEE will increase.
This guidance has been developed in consultation with industry and incorporates good practice from overseas.
Last updated:15 March 2011
