Aotearoa's regulated e-product stewardship co-design process makes progress

In July 2020, TechCollect NZ was awarded grant funding under the Waste Minimisation Fund (WMF) to lead the co-design process for a regulated product stewardship scheme for electrical and electronic products and e-waste in Aotearoa New Zealand.

TechCollect NZ has led a comprehensive co-design process with expert advice and input from stakeholders on the Circular E-Stewards Network (CEN). After receiving feedback from the Ministry for the Environment and completing a Deed of Variation in May 2022, TechCollect NZ revised certain scheme design recommendations including:

• Revising product scope to commence with a phased approach starting with Screens & monitors, Small equipment, and Telecommunication & small IT equipment
• Indicating expected in-scope e-waste generation and corresponding scheme costs to inform stewardship fee settings
• Recommending suitable targets for scheme access and material recovery

Michael Dudley, TechCollect NZ's Senior Policy Manager: "We deeply appreciate the valuable contributions of so many stakeholders who want to see a regulated e-product stewardship scheme take force in Aotearoa."

Next steps

1	Public consultation on supporting regulations The Ministry for the Environment undertakes public consultation and seeks Government approval for regulations supporting the scheme.
2	Apply for scheme accreditation The scheme manager applies for accreditation. If the Minister for the Environment is satisfied the scheme meets WMA requirements, it will be accredited.
3	Scheme implementation The earliest possible in-effect start date for the scheme was expected to be in 2025.

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