ENB meets with trade representatives on PRS on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
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At the meeting, the trade representatives commented that since the implementation of the scheme, the WEEE‧PARK operator had been able to collect the used equipment three working days from the day of sales after receipt of the service request from the sellers and as requested by the customer. Delivery of the new product and removal of the used one could be done on the same day. The EPD also reminded sellers to strengthen training for their frontline staff. They have to explain clearly to the customers the arrangements for statutory removal service and the time required, and should not make any false claims or arrangements that are inconsistent with the law.
The meeting also discussed other aspects of the implementation including how to strengthen the collaboration between different stakeholders. The EPD reminded the trade that providing collection service for used equipment does not require a licence. Sellers can choose and appoint different logistics companies to be the default collector under their removal service plans, and they are not obliged to appoint the WEEE‧PARK operator as their default collector.
An EPD spokesman said, "We appreciate that the logistics service market is mature and many sellers have their own logistics fleet or partnering logistics services companies to handle delivery and collection services. The new scheme is designed to enable sellers to continue their existing practice of using their own fleet or different logistics companies to provide collection service for delivery to qualified treatment facilities for further processing. We welcome the trade to explore with the qualified treatment facilities the feasibility of collaboration in providing the removal service."
Following commencement of the legislation, the EPD has commenced its enforcement efforts including inspections at shops suspected of non-compliance. As at 4pm today, the EPD has conducted over 340 inspections at relevant points of sales and the overall compliance situation is satisfactory. If members of the public have any questions or complaints on the implementation of the WPRS, they can call the EPD’s dedicated hotline 2310 0223.
Regulated electrical equipment includes air-conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, televisions, computers, printers, scanners and monitors. The WPRS covering these products commenced operation on August 1 this year.
Representatives from three trade associations, namely the Hong Kong and Kowloon Electrical Appliances Merchants Association, Radio Association of Hong Kong, and the Hong Kong Retail Management Association, attended the meeting today to discuss mainly the implementation of the WPRS at the retail supply level. Representatives of the WEEE‧PARK operator were also present. The ENB and EPD will continue to meet with the relevant trade from time to time to review the implementation of the scheme.
Ends/Friday, August 10, 2018
Issued at HKT 20:55
Issued at HKT 20:55
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