The annual WEEE collection target for 2021 is set at 503,629 tonnes and the data released by the Environment Agency in Q3 reveals that the overall UK collection rate is 74%. This is below where we would like to see it for this time of year, although there are promising signs of Display equipment and Cooling appliance targets being achieved.
Looking at the overall WEEE collection result there is a possibility that we could miss the annual target for the fifth year in a row:
Collections of Small Mixed WEEE (SMW, categories 2 to 10) appear to have bounced back from the levels seen in 2020 when Household Waste & Recycling Centres were forced to close for a period, with an increase of 15,488 tonnes compared to this time last year. However, this category appears to be an area that is again falling short of the targets, despite the collective push from across the industry.
Overall the UK needs to work towards more widespread collection networks providing better, more efficient options that enable and encourage consumers to recycle their waste electronics.
Consumer demand for electricals continues
EEE placed on market data for Q3 2021 reveals a steady flow of electricals entering the market. Compared to Q2, the data highlights some obvious reductions in line with seasonality, for example reduced demand for gardening equipment and power tools. Similarly, the data shows an increase in automatic dispensers, which could be linked to products designed to help consumers navigate the new world of COVID.
When reviewing the data against 2020 for the same period, EEE placed on the UK market has increased by 126,094 tonnes. This clearly demonstrates that consumer demand for new electronics has not waivered.
Moving into 2022 we expect there will be an increased focus to set up more retailer take back, specifically online retailers. This will be in addition to opportunities to increase initiatives with local authorities, including kerbside collections. Look out for these themes in the upcoming WEEE consultation next year.
B2B Compliance can organise collections of WEEE, either as a one-off or as part of a regular take-back service for your customers. Please contact our team to find out more.