If your company sells or markets electrical or electronic equipment, you are likely subject to the WEEE directive. The WEEE directive concerns WEEE waste (waste electrical and electronic equipment) and is a key part of Denmark’s and the EU’s efforts to promote a circular economy and ensure proper handling of electronic waste.
But what does WEEE stand for? WEEE stands for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment. The directive aims to reduce the volume of WEEE waste, promote reuse and WEEE recycling, and ensure environmentally responsible treatment of end-of-life products. In Denmark, the directive is implemented through national legislation that imposes extended producer responsibility.
Who is subject to producer responsibility?
All companies that design, manufacture, import, or sell electrical and electronic equipment on the Danish market—whether directly or through distance selling—are subject to WEEE regulations and producer responsibility. This applies regardless of company size.
If your company markets products under its own name or brand, imports equipment from another EU country or a third country, or acts as a distributor for a producer without an established producer responsibility in Denmark, you are covered.
It is important to understand that producer responsibility is not limited to manufacturers. Importers are also considered producers in this context. These companies must register with Dansk Producentansvar (DPA – Danish Producer Responsibility) and report data on the quantities of equipment they place on the market.
Failure to comply with WEEE regulations can result in sanctions and fines. Therefore, it is essential to work with a reliable advisor who can ensure that your business complies with all obligations related to the WEEE directive.
What equipment is covered by WEEE?
The WEEE directive covers a wide range of electrical and electronic products. Below is an overview of the main categories typically relevant for WEEE reporting:
| Category | Examples of equipment |
|---|---|
| Temperature exchange equipment | Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning units |
| Screens or monitors > 100 cm² | Displays and monitors showing visual information |
| Light sources | All types of lighting equipment |
| Large equipment > 50 cm | Equipment with external dimensions over 50 cm |
| Small equipment ≤ 50 cm | Equipment under 50 cm not covered by other categories |
| Small IT and telecom equipment < 50 cm | Devices that collect, transmit, or store data |
| Photovoltaic panels | Solar panels used for energy production |
Understanding which category your products fall into is essential for accurate WEEE reporting and correct fee calculation.
Who is the end-user?
When reporting under the WEEE directive, you must specify whether the equipment is intended for private households, businesses, or public institutions. This affects how the resulting WEEE waste is handled.
In private households, waste is typically managed through municipal collection systems such as recycling centers.
For business equipment, the company using the equipment is generally responsible for its disposal and environmental treatment.
Who needs a WEEE declaration?
If your company sells electrical and electronic equipment for more than DKK 1 million annually, you must obtain a WEEE declaration from an auditor.
However, a management declaration is sufficient if:
- Annual revenue from electrical/electronic products does not exceed DKK 1 million (excluding VAT)
AND
- The company does not exceed more than one of the following thresholds over the past two financial years:
- Total assets of DKK 7 million
- Net revenue of DKK 14 million (excluding VAT)
- An average of 10 employees
What is a WEEE declaration?
A WEEE declaration documents that your company complies with its producer responsibility obligations under the WEEE directive. It is not only about avoiding penalties but also about demonstrating environmental and social responsibility.
The declaration is prepared in accordance with the international standard ISRS 4400 (agreed-upon procedures).
The purpose is to ensure that WEEE waste is handled in a way that minimizes environmental impact. This includes everything from household appliances to IT and medical equipment.
What does a WEEE declaration include?
A WEEE declaration validates your reporting to DPA and includes sample-based verification of your submitted data. Typically, it covers:
- Product categories: Classification aligned with the WEEE directive, including end-user segmentation
- Volumes/weight: Detailed reporting of quantities placed on the market
- Internal procedures: Review of your company’s documented processes for handling WEEE obligations
What are the reporting deadlines?
To comply with WEEE regulations, it is important to meet the annual reporting deadlines.
The reporting period to Danish Producer Responsibility (DPA) runs from January 1 to March 31.
Reporting is completed electronically via the DPA producer portal, where companies must submit data on the equipment they placed on the Danish market in the previous year.
After submission, your auditor has until May 31 to issue the WEEE declaration.
How can we help with WEEE compliance?
We assist with all aspects of WEEE compliance, including data collection, correct categorization, and ensuring that your company meets all requirements under the WEEE directive and applicable WEEE regulations.
Contact us today for a discussion about your WEEE declaration and how we can support your compliance and WEEE recycling efforts.
