WRITTEN QUESTION E-2098/97 by Hiltrud Breyer (V) to the Commission (19 June 1997)

Subject: Electronic scrap

1. Is the Commission encouraging innovation in product development? If so, how? If not, why not?

2. Does the Commission take the view that innovation in product development confers a competitive advantage?

Answer given by Mr Bangemann on behalf of the Commission (25 July 1997)

The information technology, telecommunications and consumer electronics industries are acknowledged as some of the fastest changing, highest spending research & development (R& D) and innovative industrial sectors. Companies face the constant global challenge of competition and public pressure on issues such as the environment. Already products in their in-use and standby phases are available with improved performance such as reduced power consumption. Increasingly products are being designed with end-of-life considerations built-in (such as ease of disassembly, component and materials labelling, removal of hazardous substances). Companies are well aware of the need for constant product revision to respond to changing public authority and user demands. The Commission recognises the efforts made by industry towards constantly improving product performance (including environmental features) in a dynamic global market place. The Commission undertakes to keep under review progress made by industry in terms of the environmental friendliness of products at end-of-life. Community research and technological development (R& TD) programmes (in particular the information technology programmes) have helped support the development of better tools and production methods. Their use has been promoted through accompanying measures and best practice projects.

The Commission is currently preparing a communication on the competitiveness of recycling industries. This communication is the result of consultation with industry and analyses the key factors determining the competitive situation of industries involved in recycling. It also covers the electronic scrap issue. It recommends a number of actions in order to develop recycling activities while promoting increased environmental protection. A number of recommendations focus on the development of new markets for recycled materials and the need for increased understanding of the life cycle of products. A particular emphasis is put on the promotion of innovation in recycling industries, the need for increased information on R& TD, and diffusion of best practices. The development of quality strategies and training among recycling companies is necessary. The obstacles that complex products (such as electronic equipment) face in terms of recycling are covered with a reference to improved design for recycling. The need for standards is highlighted, and the potential discrimination against recycled products embedded in existing standards is recognised. The communication also recommends the creation of a recycling forum which will gather the main actors in the field of recycling in order to discuss the various future options. This forum should start at the end of 1997 and last for a period of 12 months. The need for a European recycling centre which could deal with issues such as technological watch, the diffusion of best practices and the promotion of innovation is mentioned and will be discussed in the forum.

The Commission is currently carrying out a study in order to propose eco-label ecological criteria for the product group 'personal computers'. This initiative will allow, within the framework of the Community eco-label scheme, the possibility of certifying the environment-driven innovation of the computer industry.