November 2007 saw the introduction of a waste-management system for electrical and electronic equipment, so ensuring alignment by Italy in this respect.  The system is governed by Legislative Decree no. 151 of 2005 and, as provided by the relevant European directive (2002/96/CE), responsibility is placed directly on the Producers.

Equipments subjected to WEEE Regulations

WEEE regulations apply to all EEE (Electrical and Electronic Equipment) that, to operate properly, requires electrical current or electromagnetic fields.  The equipment in question, as listed in Annex 1A of Legislative Decree 151, is intended for end consumers or for non-household use.  It is designed for a voltage of less than 1000 volts with alternating current and operates at 1500 volts with direct current.  The primary energy source in enabling it to perform its basic functions is electrical current.

The term WEEE also extends to all components, sub-assemblies, and consumables that are an integral part of the product at the time it is discarded.

Entities with compulsory duties under the system

The entities for which the system is compulsory (termed “Producers”) are all those that, regardless of their sales methods:

·          manufacture and sell EEE that carries their trade mark;

·          sell under their trade mark EEE to other suppliers; the seller is not adjudged a “producer” if the equipment bears the trade mark of the producer in accordance with point 1;

·          import electrical and electronic equipment or are the first to release it onto the market in the course of business.