How to check that you are using a professional and authorised WEEE processor to dispose of your waste electrical and electronic equipment

As well as data, Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment contains components and materials that require professional treatment.
Using a professional and authorised WEEE processor protects the environment, protects reputations, and reduces the risk of legal action which may result if you are seen to have failed in your duty of care when disposing of WEEE.
A few simple questions and checks are all that is needed to make sure you are sending your waste electrical equipment to a legitimate processor.

1          Do they comply with Legal Requirements?

The Environment Agency insists that all WEEE collectors are regulated and reviewed annually to ensure they comply with WEEE regulations.
Compliance includes having a Waste Carriers, Transporters, Dealers & Brokers Exemption and a relevant waste permit or exemption from the Environment Agency that allows them to handle waste electrical and electronic equipment.
Collectors should also be able to supply you with their Environment Agency registration numbers which you can check with the Environment Agency. Collectors should also be to supply you with photocopies of any licences and certificates they hold. 
Certification such as Microsoft Authorised Refurbisher or ICER-registeration is not proof that a collector complies with WEEE Regulations.

2          Are they Socially Responsible?

REI-approved computer disposal processes are ethical and comply with WEEE regulations. This guarantees you are dealing with processors who are socially responsible – in other words processors who care about the environment and communities.
It is not just data security standards that you need to check when you look for an ICT recycling specialist – check their environmental credentials too.

Ask:

Do they recycle and refurbish redundant or unwanted IT equipment to ensure that minimal waste material enters the waste stream?
Where possible, do they adopt local, sustainable approaches to WEEE reuse and recycling?
Do they refurbish equipment for reuse or just recycle for metal recovery?
Are they social or community enterprises that can ensure that benefit  the local community?