Renewables win exclusion from EU toxic law

EurActiv - The renewable energy sector was in high spirits yesterday (2 June) as MEPs decided to exclude windmills and solar panels from an EU law aimed at curbing the use of toxic chemicals in household electric and electronic goods. The European Parliament's environment committee amended a proposal on the recast Directive on the Restriction of Hazardous Substances in electrical and electronic equipment (RoHS)....Other products which won exclusion from the directive include large-scale installations and industrial tools, and material used for military vehicles and equipment.

MEPs also listed a number of substances which are currently not restricted as priorities for further review, with a view to a possible ban in the future. These include halogenated flame retardants and PVC. The European Commission will carry out an assessment of substances for future restriction, assisted by MEPs and EU member states, who will also be able to propose substances for examination, the committee said.