Evolution of the electronic waste management system in Spain

The vastly increasing amounts of waste from electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) has made it imperative to develop systems that can guarantee selective collection and correct treatment of such waste. The European Union (EU) Directive 2002/96/EC applies to WEEE, but some countries still lack legislation or have not yet devised a waste management system to comply with the law. In this setting, studies that provide information about how WEEE is managed in specific countries or regions can help facilitate shared experiences and increased learning about effective methods. Therefore, this study analyzes how WEEE management systems in Spain emerged, from the earliest drafts of the WEEE Directive 2002/96/EC to its full implementation. The chronological analysis reveals the gradual implementation of each requirement, the problems involved, and the attempted solutions. This analysis in turn indicates which factors have played fundamental roles in the development of a waste management system and indicates conclusions of interest to managers throughout the world who must deal with WEEE.