The increased use of electrical and electronic equipment coupled with the concerns on their waste’s impact on the environment and of late their efficiency, has in turn fuelled various EU rules. Aimed at addressing such concerns, we have seen the coming into force of the so-called RoHS Directive (which seeks to restrict hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment) as well as a legislative framework for more efficient design (labelled as eco-design).

MEUSAC together with the GRTU organised a consultation session for stakeholders in relation to the proposed recast of the RoHS directive as well as the implementing measures adopted under Directive 2005/32/EC on energy-using products. Ing. Joseph Micallef from the Regulatory Affairs Directorate within the Malta Standards Authority addressed this session, which tackled the issues involved, the current discussions taking place and developments to be expected in the near future.

The issues in question were of particular interest to:

• Manufacturers of electronic and electrical equipment
• Importers/exporters of such products
• Retailers of such products

The session was held on the 25^th March at the GRTU offices in Valletta.