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Project title

RE-EVALUATE ? Reuse of EEE ?Evaluation and Mainstreaming

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Limerick (UL)

Lead Applicant

Colin Fitzpatrick

Project Abstract

To research current and best practise in the reuse of EEE as entire appliances, parts and components. To assess whether reuse is a viable option for mainstream WEEE management, what proportion of waste may be reused, and in what circumstances. To assess whether the priority given to reuse in the waste management hierarchy can be reflected in practical arrangements and what benefits this would bring, such as reducing energy consumption by promoting longer life of EEE, reducing CO2 emissions, reducing raw materials and water use, reducing pollution and illegal dumping of hazardous waste, especially in less developed countries. Also whether reuse, developed by social enterprises, is able to create jobs and training opportunities for persons at risk of social exclusion. Also whether reuse can promote a better quality of life for lower-income households benefiting from good quality second hand electrical and electronic appliances, including IT. What role after sales support, maintenance and training, and other models of ownership (e.g. leasing) might have on this activity. To provide comprehensive guidelines to allow best practises to be mainstreamed, and marketing and sales to be sustainable. To collect and document best practise regarding reuse of EEE in Ireland, Europe and on an international level. The validating of this best practise through the application, monitoring and evaluation of two reuse Trials, to assess both current and improved reuse practises. On the basis of this, to carry out complimentary research to permit the following outputs: 1) A report on best practise strategies, standards and accreditation for EEE reuse, 2) An evaluation of current reuse practises in Ireland and suggest improvements 3) A manual of technical standards for reused EEE, 4) An operations manual for reuse enterprises, 5) A guide to marketing reused EEE and green procurement, and 6) A manual for reuse-friendly design principles for new EEE.7) A web page and Internet portal to disseminate these results.8) Peer-reviewed conference and journal publications

Grant Approved

�301,130.20

Research Hub

Green and Circular Economy

Research Theme

Waste and Resources Management

Start Date

17/11/2008

Initial Projected Completion Date

17/11/2011