Posted by Tom Abraham on March 09, 1999 at 17:35:53:
In Reply to: Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment posted by Emily on November 26, 1998 at 11:24:20:
Emily,
I recently started looking into the WEEE directive and Design for Environment
on a commercial basis. I hope the following helps.
I recommend you look at the Manchester Metropolitan University
site (www.mmu.ac.uk) as they have undertaken a lot of research into
design for environment, which appears to be the area
of focus from your question. Additionally look at the ICER site
(www.icer.org).
With respect to polymers check out the Bayer site, as they
can supply polymers with post consumer recycled content, and the
data sheets are available on the web.
The biggest problem for UK manufacturers is likely to be the proposed ban
on halogenated flame retardants, as these are used in around 99%
of circuit boards (Siemens have developed a board which does not use them)
and most silicon chips are also coated with these substances.
For US manufacturers the greatest problem is likely to be the compulsory inclusion
of recycled material in plastics, as they are even harder to source in the US
than in the UK and the rest of Europe.
If you need any more specific information let me know, and I'll try and help.
Good luck with your project
Tom