What It Is

Directive 2012/19/EU, the recast WEEE Directive, is a binding EU regulation establishing a legal framework for managing waste from electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Its primary purpose is to promote prevention, reuse, recycling, and recovery while minimizing environmental and health risks via Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). It uses an open-scope approach covering all EEE since 2018, with national transpositions.

Key Components

• Six open categories in Annex III for EEE classification.
• **Collection targets65% of average EEE placed on market or 85% of WEEE generated.
• **Treatment standardsSelective depollution per Annex II, recovery/recycling targets.
• **EPR pillarsProducer registration, financing, reporting via national registers.
• Compliance through collective PROs or individual schemes; harmonized formats via 2017-2019 acts.

Why Organizations Use It

Mandatory for EU market access, reduces e-waste risks, recovers critical materials. Drives circular economy alignment, avoids fines/market bans, enhances reputation. Strategic benefits include cost recovery, supply security.

Implementation Overview

Multi-jurisdictional: register per Member State, report POM data, join PROs. Key activities: scope classification, reverse logistics, audits. Applies to producers/importers EU-wide; phased rollout (0-18 months) with ongoing reporting.

What It Is

BRCGS Global Standard for Food Safety (Issue 9) is a GFSI-benchmarked certification framework for food manufacturers. It ensures product safety, legality, authenticity, and quality through a structured management system combining senior management commitment, Codex HACCP-based plans, and prerequisite programs (GMP/GHP). Scope covers manufacturing, processing, packing of processed foods, ingredients, primary products, and pet foods.

Key Components

Nine core clauses: senior management, HACCP plan, FSQMS, site standards, product control, process control, personnel, high-risk zones, traded products. Features fundamental requirements (e.g., traceability, allergen management) with grading (AA/A/B/C/D). Built on risk assessments, internal audits, and CAPA.

Why Organizations Use It

Provides market access to retailers requiring GFSI certification, reduces duplicative audits, evidences due diligence, mitigates recalls (allergens, pathogens). Enhances operational resilience, stakeholder trust, and aligns with regulations like FSMA.

Implementation Overview

Phased approach: gap analysis, documentation, training, mock audits, certification by accredited bodies (announced/unannounced). Suited for food manufacturers globally; 6-12 months typical for mid-sized sites.