SWICO Recycling is a system that was designed by the Association of Importers and Manufacturers in conjunction with dealers for recycling used electrical and electronic equipment. SWICO Recycling's function consists of reclaiming raw materials and disposing of pollutants in line with environmental regulations. The system guarantees that electrical and electronic equipment can be taken back free of charge throughout Switzerland and in the Principality of Liechtenstein.
The recycling process, which involves taking back, transporting, and recycling equipment as well as checking the system, is financed by way of Advance Recycling Fees (ARFs) charged on new equipment.
The Environmental Commission of the Swiss Economic Association for Information, Communications and Organisational Technology (SWICO) acts as a steering committee for SWICO Recycling. It is made up of representatives from companies that have signed up to the SWICO Recycling Convention.
In conjunction with the operations management of SWICO Recycling, the Environmental Commission defines its organisational strategy, such as setting the Advance Recycling Fee. The Telecommunications, Consumer Electronics and Office Equipment/IT sub-commissions address the specific divisional matters of the Convention signatories, and file applications with the Environmental Commission.
Environmental Commission:
The sub-commissions are inconceivable without the work of SWICO Recycling. Whenever political challenges arise, they search for systems and solutions, such as setting the ARF tariffs.
The following sub-commissions have been established:
The following organisations are responsible for disposing of other equipment:
The Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) is responsible for laws in Switzerland regarding the disposal of electronic equipment..
SWICO Recycling is part of an international network thanks to its role in the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Forum (WEEE). This European association was established in 2003 following the EU Directive on reducing the increasing quantities of electronic waste. Its function consists of implementing quality standards for recycling. In total, some 24 countries and 41 recycling systems are represented in the WEEE Forum.
