PLASA - the main body representing the manufacturers in the sector - has been active in the consultation process and is now rallying members for the final time to feedback on the draft regulations before their full implementation in July next year.
Detailed consultation notes have been sent to all PLASA manufacturing members affected, together with guidance on how to participate in the process; PLASA is now urging members to act and feedback before the final deadline of October 17th, warning that this is the last chance to get the detail right. Further notes will be issued to members in the next seven days as PLASA works to ensure that the final proposal is clear and workable - a result that will be vital for the manufacturers and distributors who will be responsible for operating collection and recycling schemes to meet the Directive's target.
Another key development that PLASA is keen to highlight to members is the recently-introduced legal requirement for all companies to join a producer compliance scheme to fulfil their WEEE obligations, irrespective of their size. PLASA is concerned about the amount of red tape and mounting costs now facing member companies and is keen to avoid further burdens being placed on businesses within the sector.
There is less than a month to act. Full details of the consultation process can be found on the PLASA website at www.plasa.org/standards/consultation where there are also easy-to-read guidance notes, FAQs and Information Sheets on WEEE.
Following the close of the consultation process, a meeting of the PLASA Manufacturers Forum will take place in London and - in addition to updating members on the latest developments regarding WEEE - the agenda will address other issues affecting the sector, including the proposed sell-off of the radio spectrum frequencies used by the live production industry to the highest bidders and the forthcoming Energy Using Products Directive which may entail potentially substantial product redesign and re-engineering for manufacturing companies.
(Jim Evans)
