RoHSdirektivet

The RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) Directive is a European Union regulation aimed at reducing the environmental and health risks associated with certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. Adopted in 2002 and amended in 2011, the directive entered into full force in July 2006, requiring manufacturers and suppliers within the EU to comply with its restrictions. The primary goal is to promote sustainable development by minimizing the use of harmful materials in products that are often discarded or disposed of improperly.

The RoHS Directive restricts the use of six hazardous substances in new electrical and electronic products: lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), polybrominated biphenyls (PBB), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE). These substances are known for their toxicity, persistence in the environment, and potential health risks, including neurotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and endocrine disruption. The directive applies to products placed on the EU market, including consumer electronics, lighting equipment, medical devices, and industrial machinery, with certain exemptions for specific applications.

Compliance with RoHS involves ensuring that products meet the maximum concentration limits for these substances, typically set at 0.1 percent by weight for lead, mercury, and cadmium, and 0.01 percent for hexavalent chromium. Manufacturers must also provide documentation proving compliance, such as material declarations and testing certificates. Non-compliance can result in fines and legal action, as enforcement is carried out by national authorities.

Beyond environmental benefits, RoHS contributes to the circular economy by encouraging the reuse and recycling of electronic waste. It also aligns with broader EU sustainability goals, such as the Green Deal, which aims to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly manufacturing practices. The directive continues to evolve, with ongoing discussions about potential expansions to include additional substances or broader product categories.