Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

Many everyday consumer items are electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), such as mobile phones, computers, drills, hairdryers, as well as industrial items such as medical devices, and laboratory equipment. 

When these items reach their end of life they are defined as Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE).

Reuse and recycling

WEEE is one of the fastest growing waste streams in the developed world. Up to now, a lot of WEEE was thrown into the bin and disposed of in landfill. Reuse and recycling of components was not actively encouraged or developed.

Some EEE contains hazardous materials (such as cathode ray tubes, heavy metals, batteries), which need to be recovered and treated, as they could cause serious environmental damage and are dangerous to human health.

Improved regulation of the collection, recycling and disposal of WEEE has been legislated for at European level and transposed into Irish law in the WEEE Regulations.

Producers, retailers and consumers all have a role to play in the management of WEEE under the legislation. The Environmental Protection Agency and local authorities have responsibility for enforcing different aspects of the WEEE Regulations.

Learn more

• Check Irish WEEE legislation
• Check EPA Enforcement to date
• Read EPA WEEE guidance
• Download B2B Waste Management Plan/Report Templates And Signage
• Read documents about WEEE in Ireland
• Read Frequently Asked Questions on WEEE

Useful links

Visit the following websites:

• WEEE Register Society
• WEEE Ireland
• ERP Recycling
• The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
• Citizens Information
• Project Heatsun