RoHSdirektiivin

The Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive is a European Union regulation that aims to reduce the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). The directive was adopted in February 2003 and came into effect on July 1, 2006. It applies to all EEE placed on the market within the EU, including components, raw materials, and products containing EEE.

The RoHS Directive restricts the use of six hazardous substances in EEE, namely:

1. Lead (Pb)

2. Mercury (Hg)

3. Cadmium (Cd)

4. Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI))

5. Polybrominated biphenyls (PBB)

6. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE)

The directive sets maximum concentration limits for these substances in EEE, with the exception of lead in batteries, which is allowed up to 0.3% by weight. The limits for the other substances are set at 0.1% by weight.

The RoHS Directive also includes provisions for the registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals (REACH) and the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive. These directives work together to promote the sustainable management of EEE and reduce the environmental impact of the EEE industry.

The RoHS Directive has been widely adopted by manufacturers and suppliers of EEE worldwide, as it helps to ensure the safety of consumers and the environment. However, the directive has also faced criticism for its potential impact on innovation and the cost of compliance. As a result, the EU has been working to update the RoHS Directive to address these concerns and promote the development of more sustainable and innovative EEE.