Proposal for Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE Directive)
Proposal for Directive on the restriction of the use of hazardous substances in EEE
Draft proposal for Directive on the impact on the environment of EEE (proposed from DG Enterprises)
Regulations in force: The Netherlands (large appliances plus IT: since Janauary 1999, others: since January 2000)
Norway: take back regulation enforced from July 1999 (not brand related.  Distinction between business and private households)
Switzerland: in place since July 1998. Advanced disposal fee.
Italy:comprehensive waste management decree in 1996 calls for take back of refrigerators, washing machines, Tvs and computers.  Network for refrigerators was launched in 1997, followed most likely by computers and TVs.  Take back free of charge when purchasing a similar new product.
Denmark: regulation on WEEE has been in place since December 1999, BUT it is NOT EPR (local government is primarily responsible for the end-of-life management of EEE)
Sweden: will be enforced in July 2001 (one-for-one, old-for-new take-back.  NOT brand related.)  Strong emphasis on hazardous substances (no recycling targets) and Informative responsibility (material content and measures for disassembly to treatment plants, their responsibility to consumers)
Regulations discussed:
Austria (draft is there, but waiting for the EU WEEE to come. Surcharge on the new products. Dispute exists as to which electronic scrap should be considered hazardous),
Finland (pilot project is going on)
France: a plan for collection and recycling of WEEE has been signed by the national association of mayors and three trade associations represenging manufacturers and retailers (Oct. 2000)
Germany: Draft regulation (originally covering only IT and communication equipment, now covering virtually every EEE) has been discussed for a long time. Yet it is now waiting for the EU Directive to be enacted.  Focal points of discussion include cost sharing producers and municipalities (i.e. Regarding sorting), and inclusion of historical products.