The Basel Convention has recently applied new controls to the export of WEEE components to non-OECD countries that will require all non-hazardous components to be exported under notification controls and hazardous components to be banned.
The EA has now published guidance on these changes which take effect from 1 January 2025. Of special concern is the export of fridge compressors which cannot be exported to non-OECD unless completely de-polluted and where there is uncertainty as to whether the main market for these – Pakistan – will continue to accept them.