The European Parliament (EP) has backed ambitious plans that would require member states to collect 85 per cent of waste electronic and electrical equipment (WEEE) by 2016, rather than the 65 per cent originally proposed. Currently, only 20 per cent of WEEE generated in the EU is actually recycled.
Other amendments to the WEEE Directive that have been backed by the EP include: requiring between 50 and 75 per cent of different material types to be recycled; introducing a five per cent reuse target; reducing the number of WEEE categories; and making producers responsible for funding the collection of WEEE from households, as well as designated collection points.
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How will the government and DMOs address the challenges of including glass in DRS while ensuring a level playing field across the UK?
There's no easy solution to include glass in the DRS while maintaining a level playing field. Potential approaches include a phased introduction of glass, potentially with higher deposits to reflect its logistical challenges. The government and DMOs could incentivise innovation in glass packaging design and subsidise dedicated return points for glass-handling. Exemptions for smaller businesses unable to handle glass might also be necessary. Any successful solution will likely blend several approaches. It must address the differing priorities of devolved administrations, balance environmental benefits with logistical and cost implications, and be supported by robust consumer education campaigns emphasizing the importance of glass recycling.