Government backs BRC alternative

Retailers are relieved the Government has rejected proposals requiring shops to take-back used electrical equipment at the end of its life.

Reacting to draft regulations on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) published today, the British Retail Consortium (BRC) said retailers are strongly committed to initiatives that benefit the environment but they must be practical.

The BRC said it was pleased the government is backing its own proposal that retailers and local authorities develop collection facilities for waste electrical goods at existing civic amenity sites and that the start date is to be delayed by a further three months.

director deneral, Kevin Hawkins, said: ?In store take-back was never a viable option. Retailers don?t have the space. It would have health, safety and licensing implications and collecting old equipment from shops would actually harm the environment by putting more traffic on the road.

?Retailers are relieved the government has listened to their concerns and is backing our compromise proposal. It must now ensure it is underpinned by a robust enforcement regime so all take part.?

The WEEE directive will now come into force on 1 July 2007, three months later than previously announced.