The Commission proposes to update legislation to restrict the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS Directive).

The proposal promotes substitution of hazardous materials to make the recycling of components more profitable. The proposed changes will further facilitate second-hand market operations (e.g. reselling) and repair of electrical and electronic equipment.

It is estimated that the measures will prevent more than 3000 tonnes of hazardous waste per year in the EU, and enable savings of energy and raw materials.

In the health sector alone, an estimated EUR 170 million in healthcare costs could be saved.