The European Commission has initiated a review of its Restrictions on Hazardous Substances (RoHS) regulation introduced in July 2006 to control hazardous substances used in the electronics industry. Experts say the review could lead to new controls on substances used in the electronics sector not currently restricted by RoHS and could also lead to a broadening of the legislation to other manufacturing sectors. The commission has yet to determine which chemicals may be restricted and which new sectors would be targeted. A key driver behind the review is the commission's aim to ensure that electronic products can be more readily recycled.

"Restricting the use of these hazardous substances is likely to enhance the possibilities and economic profitability of recycling of waste from electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and decrease the negative health impact on workers in recycling plants," the commission said. Additionally, "It aims at increasing the environmental benefit, removing the implementation and enforcement problems encountered to date and making the RoHS directive cost effective."

Further potential changes to RoHS include an exemption on the use of restricted substances where companies can demonstrate that substitute substances would be too expensive. Current rules require substitution unless it is technically impossible, or if substitution has an even greater adverse impact on the environment. Also under review is whether the exemption of RoHS for spare parts could be extended in order to prevent premature disposal of electronic equipment. The commission also will use the review to determine how it can show compliance with the law.

Legislative proposals resulting from the review, which will include consultation with stakeholders, is due to be tabled in 2008 with a view to introducing new regulations in 2010, the commission said. Currently, under RoHS, lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium, and brominated flame retardants polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) are banned in electronic equipment in the European Union (EU).