
Case studies: WEEE Collection trials and monitoring
14th March 2017
The following five case studies highlight waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) collection trials. These tested options to increase the collection of WEEE for re-use and gain maximum value from it.
Key results
A range collection activities were tested, including: retailer take-back during delivery; collection points in the workplace; promoting WEEE re-use benefits; component harvesting; and, inclusion of WEEE re-use in local authority contracts.
All case studies were successful in increasing WEEE collected
Schemes can be implemented at low cost.
Workplace
WEEE collections in the workplace
During this case study WEEE collection points were placed in offices to make it convenient for employees to dispose of their unwanted electricals in a way that encouraged re-use or recycling.
The case study:
Findings:
Take-back
Retailers: Take-back scheme
In order to increase WEEE collection rates, Knowhow trialled the collection of small electrical and electronic products from households at the time of delivering or installing new products for customers.
The Case Study:
Findings:
Benefits promotion
Promotion of WEEE re-use benefits
This case study tested the impact of increased promotion of WEEE re-use benefits via a telephone hotline and information leaflet at the recycling service, Wastesavers.
The Case Study:
Findings:
Component harvesting
Improving recycling value through component harvesting
An increase in the re-use of WEEE, specifically large domestic appliances (LDAs), can be realised by directing these items through a repair centre that incorporates a component workshop.
The Case Study:
Findings:
Local authorities contracts
Including re-use in Local Authority contracts
Local Authorities can maximise WEEE re-use by including it in WEEE collection and treatment tendering, contract specifications, and the operational service.
The Case Study:
Findings: