Until the WEEE directive was introduced on 2007, there were no rules for retailers with regard to the disposal of unwanted electrical waste; but now the WEEE regulations require producers and distributors to have more control over this fast growing and problematic waste stream.
Recycling is the most responsible way to dispose of electrical goods but – despite this – we recycle less that a third of our items once they have reached the end of their life-cycle. Almost all items with a plug or batter can be recycled (see our ‘can it be recycled’ check list below) but if you are still unsure if an item can be recycled then give a us a call and we will gladly help you.
The WEEE regulations stipulate that if a consumer takes back an electrical item to the original retailer, then the retailer must dispose of it but, as it is not always possible for consumers to do this, an alternative is to have it recycled or disposed of safely elsewhere.
At B and T we can take all your unwanted electrical and battery operated goods and dispose of them safely within the government guidelines, recycling where possible and – as always – taking our environmental responsibilities seriously by diverting as large a percentage as possible from landfill.
By recycling our unwanted electrical goods we are all doing our bit to prevent potentially hazardous waste from entering landfill and causing soil and water contamination. Also, another advantage of recycling these things is that electrical and electronic equipment is made up of a wide variety of materials, many of which can be reused. For example, there is enough steel in an iron to produce 13 steel cans.
Can it be recycled?
If your answer to the following questions is ‘yes’ then your item can be recycled.
- Does it have a plug?
- Does it use a charger?
- Does it use batteries?
- Does it carry the WEEE wheelie bin logo (a crossed out wheelie bin image).