Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) represents a major environmental and regulatory challenge for businesses. Computers, smartphones, screens, printers... this equipment contains numerous toxic substances that must be properly treated and recycled.
Specific e-waste issues
Hazardous substances
WEEE contains heavy metals (lead, mercury), brominated flame retardants, greenhouse gases and more. Their release into the environment is extremely polluting.
Confidential data
Hard disks, smartphones and other devices often store sensitive data that must be protected before recycling.
Value of components
WEEE contains precious metals (gold, silver, copper) and rare earths of high economic value, which must be recycled.
Strict regulations
Regulations (5-substance decree, WEEE pro, etc.) strictly control the collection, transport and treatment of e-waste.
Procedures and partners for secure recycling
Audit and traceability
Take stock of the WEEE to be recycled, list it and ensure full traceability of its management.
Data erasure
Network de-registration and secure destruction of sensitive data prior to recycling.
Collection and logistics
Use approved service providers to collect, group and transport WEEE in compliance with standards.
Dismantling and depollution
WEEE is dismantled and depolluted, and the various materials are separated and sent to the appropriate channels.
Recovery and recycling
Recovered raw materials (metals, plastics) are recycled, while final waste is disposed of.
Positive environmental impact
Recycling WEEE avoids wasting natural resources and extracting new metals. This considerably reduces CO2 emissions and pollution.
According to ADEME, recycling one tonne of small electrical appliances saves 9 tonnes of waste, preserves the equivalent of 2 tonnes of iron and avoids 15 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Recycling WEEE is therefore a crucial economic, environmental and regulatory challenge for businesses. Surrounding yourself with the right partners enables you to implement it in compliance with regulations and contribute to the circular economy.
