Jill Evans MEP will be the MEP responsible for updating an important law to restrict hazardous substances in electronic equipment. This will make it easier and safer to recycle every day items such as fridges, computer printers, microwaves and mobile phones.

Mrs Evans said,

"I have been busy over the last few months working on the report and meeting representatives from companies that produce these goods. Electronic waste is the fastest growing waste stream in the EU and we must be able to safely reuse and recycle old equipment. At present only a third is recycled and a lot is shipped to developing countries where the facilities to treat it are substantial and often dangerous. My aim is to ensure that safer alternatives are used in the whole production process for the benefit of consumers and the environment."

Mrs Evans will host a seminar in the European Parliament in November, arranged by ChemSec, a non-profit organisation working for a toxic free environment. They have published a research report on companies that are leading the electronics industry by moving away from chemicals that can cause health and environmental problems. The report - 'Greening Consumer Electronics' - can be viewed by clicking HERE.

Mrs Evans added,

"This shows that leading companies such as Apple and Sony Ericsson are able to go beyond existing RoHS laws. Thanks in part to this excellent report by ChemSec, I am convinced that I will be able to strengthen existing RoHS regulation to ensure a better deal for the environment."

The RoHS Directive is expected to be voted on in the European Parliament early next year.

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