Title: International regulations and treaties on electronic waste (e-waste)

Authors: Sunil Herat

Addresses: Griffith School of Engineering, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, Queensland 4111, Australia

Abstract: Different policies are being developed worldwide to deal with electronic waste (e-waste) which is one of the fastest growing waste streams in modern society. European Union|s Directives on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) are pioneers on the issue. Japan, China and Korea have implemented similar laws. In addition Japan, Canada and State of California in the USA have adopted Advanced Recycling Fee systems. United Nations through Basel Convention adopted the Nairobi declaration on e-waste in 2006. The paper deals with latest developments on the major international laws, regulations and activities related to e-waste.

Keywords: e-waste; electronic waste; WEEE; waste electrical and electronic equipment; RoHS; restriction of hazardous substances; extended producer responsibility; advanced recycling fees; international policy; international regulations; international treaties; international laws.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEE.2009.027980

International Journal of Environmental Engineering, 2009 Vol.1 No.4, pp.335 - 351

Published online: 24 Aug 2009 *

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