1 February 2008

Valpak Producer Compliance Scheme launches network of free household WEEE drop-off sites for businesses

Valpak Producer Compliance Scheme is pleased to announce the launch of a network of more than 80 household WEEE drop-off points around the UK. The network has been set up to take household WEEE from retailers and other businesses under Regulation 32, and the recently announced Regulation 40A, of the UK WEEE Regulations. The new drop-off locations are completely separate and supplementary to the public Designated Collection Facilities (DCFs) set up through the DTS scheme by Valpak Retail WEEE Services earlier this year.

In accordance with Regulations 32 and 40A of the WEEE Regulations, retailers and any other holders of WEEE from private households that do not have access to DCFs will be able to return this material free of charge to these locations.

Steve Gough, Valpak's Chief Executive, commented 'A lot of WEEE will be returned to retail stores by customers, or collected by retailers when they deliver new products. It is essential that this material is treated in line with the WEEE directive, so we are aiming to make it easier for them to deposit the material free of charge for treatment. This network will be open to any business that has household WEEE to dispose of but that is unable to access Local Authority DCFs. We are hoping to extend this network of sites even further and are keen to speak to any Approved Authorised Treatment Facilities (AATFs) that are not currently involved'.

Valpak is delighted to receive the support of B&Q, the largest home improvement retailer in the UK, who worked closely with Valpak to bring this to fruition. Steven Taylor, B&Q Contract Manager, commented "Valpak's provision of this network will help small traders with electrical waste deliver material into the WEEE recycling system. We are proud to have helped in the creation of this network and intend to support it by supplying WEEE material from our Installations partners." Valpak is keen to encourage other electronics retailers across the UK to make use of this network for all types of WEEE. Retailers can check where their closest drop-off point is by visiting www.recycle-more.co.uk or telephoning Valpak on 08450 682572.