1

Why the project matters

The WEEE Directive 2012/19/EU established, for 2016, a minimum collection rate of 45 % of all WEEE placed on the market in the preceding three years, but from 2019, the rate rose to 65 %. Unfortunately, each country in the EU has decided a way to implement the Directive, which means 27 different implementations. Furthermore, countries not belonging to EU territories have a less restrictive WEEE waste management legislation, contributing to improver disposal and treatment methods of discarded electrical equipment. Landfilling and incineration contribute to soil and water contamination, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, the creation of a licensing system and the establishment of a network of collection points or collectors able to separately collect all e-waste generated at the source are crucial for a proper e-waste management in the participating countries (Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, Spain, Türkiye and Tunisia).

2

What it aims to achieve

• To harmonize e-waste management strategies across the Mediterranean by equipping stakeholders with tools and training, piloting inclusive solutions, and enhancing citizen awareness.
• To build a cohesive framework that improves collection rates, reduces pollution, and strengthens eco-businesses built on recycling and reuse.

3

Expected change

• 8 new local Action Plans adopted by authorities.
• Over 7,000 citizens reached by awareness actions.
• Social enterprises supported through inclusive employment models.
• Increased e-waste recovery and reuse across 8 countries.

4

What the project delivers

• Transnational methodology for WEEE strategies.
• Three pilot solutions: WEEE AWARE (education & outreach), WEEE SOCIAL (inclusive business), and WEEE COLLECT (collection logistics platform).
• Training sessions, community campaigns, and local stakeholder consultations.
• Development of a replicable model for e-waste circularity.
• Engagement in circular economy policy dialogue at regional and EU level.

5

Who benefits

• 1,500+ citizens engaged directly in project actions.
• 280 local policy makers
• 21 WEEE companies benefiting from strategy and model adoption.
• Socially marginalized groups integrated into the recycling workforce.
• Schools and youth involved in environmental education.
• Broader public empowered to act on e-waste through awareness and access.