A Guide for Those Required to Organize Electronic Waste Collection Campaigns Under the WEEE Directive

27 April 2025

Electronic waste (e-waste) contains hazardous components that can seriously harm both the environment and human health. Therefore, both the European Union and Turkey have imposed significant responsibilities on producers, importers, and distributors through the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive. So, who is obligated to organize electronic waste collection campaigns? What responsibilities must they be aware of? Here are all the details:

Who is Covered by the WEEE Directive?

Those obligated under the WEEE Directive include:

Producers: Companies that place electrical and electronic equipment on the market (including brand owners).
Importers: Companies that import electrical and electronic products into the country.
Distributors/Retailers: Stores and sales points selling products directly to end-users.
Authorized Representatives: Local representatives of foreign manufacturers.

These entities are responsible for collecting, recycling, or properly disposing of the products they place on the market once the products reach end-of-life.

Obligation to Organize Collection Campaigns

The WEEE Directive imposes specific obligations:

Collecting Products: Retrieve products at the end of their life cycle.
Setting Up Collection Points: Stores with a sales area of ≥400 m² must accept old products from customers free of charge.
Organizing Campaigns: Inform users and organize e-waste collection campaigns to achieve collection targets.

How Should an E-Waste Collection Campaign Be Organized?

Create a Campaign Plan: Define your goals and target audience.
Raise Awareness: Educate users through workshops, trainings, and digital content about the importance of e-waste recycling.
Set Up Collection Points: Establish easily accessible collection bins or kiosks.
Manage Transparent Processes: Report the amount, type, and recycling process of collected waste.
Encourage Recycling: Increase participation by offering incentives such as gift vouchers or donation opportunities.
Work with Authorized Recycling Facilities: Ensure collected waste is disposed of legally and in compliance with regulations.