The Significance of RoHS

There has been a remarkable increase in environmental concerns recently. And, E-waste has been one of the major concerns since the toxic chemicals that are emitted from the waste can be fatal.  In simpler terms, electronic waste is any electronic equipment that has been discarded. This may include, broken or working electronic items that have been thrown in the garbage. The problem with these items is that they emit toxic chemicals that are extremely deadly for the environment. There have been several governmental and international organizations that are working together to fight e- waste-related problems. This is where, RoHS, originated in the European Union puts restrictions on certain hazardous materials found in electronic products. 

Here, we shall try to understand a few concepts related to RoHS.

• What does RoHS mean?

RoHS is the acronym for Restriction of Hazardous Substances. It aims to restrict hazardous materials that are found in electronic items that have been thrown away. Since these discarded electronic waste products are a major source of harmful chemical substances, restrictions on specific materials are extremely necessary. A few restricted materials mandated under the RoHS are as follows.

1. Lead (Pb)
2. Mercury (Hg)
3. Cadmium (Cd)
4. Hexavalent chromium ( CrVI)
5. Polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and
6. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE).

• Significance of RoHS compliance

The materials mentioned above are a few of the most hazardous substances. These deadly materials come with an occupational danger with manufacturing and these restricted substances not only pollute the natural environment but also mess with natural habitats. One strikingly notable thing about RoHS is that it is also associated with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE), which encourages environmentally safe and sound electronic products that are free from the restricted substances with respect to recycling and recovery. The RoHS 2 in July 2011 expanded the original RoHS to cover all the electrical components from cabling to casing.

Today, many household appliances and consumer electronics have to pass the RoHS compliance to ensure the products in use are safe as per the directives. And, Enviropass RoHS compliance makes sure you get assisted as per the recent guidelines.

Conclusion

People at every level have begun to acknowledge the simple fact that manmade disasters can be extremely hazardous if not brought under control. Electronic waste should not only be free from the restricted elements but should be disposed of in such a manner that emissions from it do not hamper the environment.