Ontario begins WEEE directive compliance

Ontario, Canada, is implementing its own version of the WEEE (waste-electrical-and-electronic equipment) directive for the recycling, reuse, and refurbishment of certain electronics. The Ontario Electronic Stewardship (www.ontarioelectronicstewardship.ca) backs the plan, which should impact electronics design, just as previous versions of WEEE have in the European Union and Asia-Pacific countries. The plan follows Ontario's Waste Diversion Act and Regulation 393/04, which designates a list of electronic equipment that requires waste-diversion programs.

The directive proposes to establish an industry-led, provincewide waste-diversion program for electronic equipment in two phases. The first phase will cover computers and accessories, computer monitors, printers, fax machines, and televisions. The second phase will add PDAs, copiers, flatbed scanners, land-line and cell phones, and audio-visual equipment. The Ontario Electronic Stewardship is moving to Phase One, with Phase Two implementation expected thereafter.

Like the previous countries that have launched a WEEE directive, Canada is initiating WEEE to reduce its waste, as well as keep hazardous chemicals out of landfills. The country has also recognized the reuse of resources such as ferrous metals, aluminum, and copper, which electronics often contain. Ontario joins several other Canadian provinces, including Alberta, Nova Scotia, and Saskatchewan, in taking WEEE action.