With the release of Defra’s WEEE collection figures, all predictions made towards the end of 2017 have been realised.
Unfortunately the latest figures reveal that the UK as a whole has missed the WEEE collection targets in all but Category 14. The overall shortfall was close to 100,000 Tonnes of WEEE across all categories – around 16% of the total target.
Compliance fee
With such a shortfall, compliance schemes will be required to fall back on the WEEE compliance fee, used when schemes are unable to gain enough evidence to cover their total obligations. The proceeds from the fee are used to support projects that encourage WEEE recycling and support collections.
As the graph above outlines, each of the Categories (except 14) missed the target. This means that for compliance schemes payment of a fee on their individual shortfalls will have to be made, the exact amount determined by how far each individual scheme is from the target.
What does 2018 look like?
With the UK collection targets likely to remain the same or similar for 2018, and decreasing amounts of Household EEE being placed on the market, this year may well be just as challenging, if not more so, for compliance schemes.
If you would like to discuss your WEEE compliance, please contact us.
Anna Ford
Client data analyst
Anna provides key data analysis support for Ecosurety members. Having previously worked within the client services team for a number of years, Anna has an enviable understanding of the nuances and minutiae of the producer responsibility regulations, across all three regulations of packaging, batteries and WEEE. She now undertakes data projects for members, including helping them to report to the UK Plastics Pact, for example. All you need to know is that she gets a real kick from Excel wizardry!
Useful links
If you are a producer or distributor of WEEE you will be affected by future Extended Producer Responsibility change. This includes manufacturers, re-branders, importers, distance sellers and retailers. Make sure your business is prepared.
Read More >>Defra are considering whether producers should fund the free collection of bulky WEEE from householders in the new system.
Read More >>After much delay, government have published their response to the second round of consultations on reforming the packaging producer responsibility system that closed last June.
Read More >>
