What is BS EN 62684-2016?

BS EN 62684-2016 is a professional technical standard that specifies requirements for the management of end-of-life handheld electrical and electronic products. This standard provides guidelines for manufacturers, recyclers, and regulators to ensure the effective and responsible handling of these products once they reach their end-of-life stage.

Background

In today's fast-paced consumer electronics industry, the rapid obsolescence of handheld electrical and electronic products has become a significant environmental concern. The improper disposal of these products can lead to pollution, resource depletion, and potential health hazards due to the presence of hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and flame retardants.

Scope and Objectives

The scope of BS EN 62684-2016 includes all types of handheld electrical and electronic products, such as mobile phones, tablets, cameras, and portable gaming devices. The standard aims to achieve the following objectives:

Promote eco-design principles to reduce the environmental impact of these products throughout their lifecycle.

Facilitate the proper identification and separation of components and materials for recycling purposes.

Establish guidelines for the safe disposal of hazardous substances present in these products.

Ensure the implementation of efficient and transparent processes for the collection, transportation, and treatment of end-of-life products.

Encourage cooperation among manufacturers, recyclers, and regulatory authorities to optimize the recycling and recovery rates.

Implementation and Benefits

Implementing BS EN 62684-2016 brings several benefits to various stakeholders:

Manufacturers can enhance their reputation by demonstrating their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Recyclers can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their recycling processes, leading to reduced costs and higher resource recovery rates.

Regulators can establish a clear framework for monitoring and enforcing compliance with environmental regulations.

Consumers can make informed choices by selecting products that comply with this standard, contributing to a greener future.

The environment benefits from the reduction of hazardous waste and the conservation of natural resources through proper recycling and disposal.