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Project Code [2014-RE-DS-1]

This information is correct as of today and is updated from time to time by the EPA to reflect changes in the management of the project. Please check back regularly for updates.

Project title

The development of a model to ascertain future levels of historic WEEE arising

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Limerick (UL)

Lead Applicant

Colin Fitzpatrick

Project Abstract

Under the WEEE Directive the recycling of WEEE must be free of charge to the consumer. The continued imposition of visible recycling fees, while contingency funds are in place, without a body of evidence to substantiate this could be interpreted as non-compliance with the directive and lead to censure or fines. Using a range of data sources including census data, historical WEEE audits and comprehensive sampling this project will employ material flow analysis and statistical methods (Weibull Probability Density Function) to estimate future return rates of historical WEEE. This can be used to inform policy on WEEE financing and to support logistics and treatment requirements planning into the future. It will also detail a sampling methodology and how the projections can be updated on an annual basis. - A final report - One peer reviewed journal article in Environmental Science & Technology - A 2-page summary report for policy makers - An oral presentation at an international conference - A recorded webinar - A special session of the National WEEE Monitoring Group which contains all identified stakeholders will be organised to present and discuss the results - The findings will be presented at the general meetings of the WEEE compliance schemes to their members. - A press release about the final report will be issued by the UL Press Office.

Grant Approved

�99,981.80

Research Hub

Green and Circular Economy

Research Theme

Resource efficiency

Start Date

02/03/2015

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/03/2016