Hong Kong Rolls Out Compulsory Electronics Recycling As Part of EPR Program

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Starting August 1^st, electronics and appliance recycling requirements have come into effect in Hong Kong. The new requirements are part of the new extended producer responsibility (EPR) program, which covers a wide range of covered electronic devices including air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, televisions, monitors, computers, printers and scanners.

Under the new scheme, the Hong Kong retailers are required to offer free take-back of customer’s old electronics and appliances when they opt to buy a new one. Customers can request the removal of the old item and arrange for the delivery of the new item on the same day free of charge. In turn, the producers are required to register with the Hong Kong government and notify the name and details of the collection and recycling service provider with whom they have entered into an agreement. The offenders will be liable to pay fine of up to HK$100,000 per violation.

According to media reports, majority of retailers have chosen Alba Group’s new state-of-the-art Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Treatment and Recycling Facility (WEEETRF) which was officially opened in March this year. The suppliers are required to pay levy ranging from HK$15 to HK$165 per each item for recycling electrical waste at the Alba integrated waste site, which could eventually be transferred to the customers.

The recycling pick-up services for old household electronic devices can be availed of free of cost even without buying new items. However, the waiting period for such customers will be more, as preference will be given to those who purchase new items, said Alba spokesperson. Instead, residents could also drop the appliances at public depots or hand them over to doo-to-door collectors.