RoHSEUVerordnung

The RoHSEUVerordnung, also known as the RoHS Directive (Directive 2011/65/EU), is a European Union law that restricts the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. It aims to protect human health and the environment by limiting the presence of lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). In 2015, four phthalates were added to the list of restricted substances: bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), and diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP).

The directive applies to a wide range of electrical and electronic equipment, including large and small household appliances, IT and telecommunications equipment, consumer electronics, lighting equipment, and more. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that their products comply with the RoHS requirements and for affixing the CE marking, which signifies conformity with EU directives. Exemptions from the restrictions are available for specific applications where no suitable alternatives exist, but these are subject to review and renewal. The RoHS Directive is a key piece of legislation within the EU's framework for managing the environmental impact of electronic waste.