Situation of WEEE in two capitals Beijing, China and Bucharest, Romania: A comparison

摘要

The paper presents some data based on case investigation regarding electrical and electronic waste management (WEEE) in one of the EU cities, that is Bucharest, Romania and in Beijing, The Republic of China. The aim of this research is to analyze the situation in these two cities from the WEEE management point of view. The experiences of China and Romania could provide an interesting reference point. The strengths and weaknesses that the two cities have encountered can be used in order to give a more rational plan for other countries. In China the increase of WEEE collection was achieved in parallel with the increase of the efficiency of selective Municipal Solid Waste collection. In Romania, pilot experiences were useful to increase the awareness of the population. The different interests of the two populations towards recyclable waste led to a different scenario: in Romania all types of WEEE have been collected since its entrance into the EU; in China the "interest" in recycling is typically related to large household appliances, with a secondary role are the regulations covering three major issues, namely, take-back issues, controls on hazardous substances in WEEE and the assurance of good environmental management in WEEE plants.