Understanding the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive

RoHS landing page understanding

The Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive regulates the use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) to protect the environment and public health. Alongside RoHS, the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive promotes the collection and recycling of electronic equipment.

Electrical and electronic waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams. During the use, collection, treatment and disposal, such waste may release harmful substances, posing risks to the environment and people’s health.

The amended RoHS Directive entered into force on 1 January 2026, replacing the Directive 2011/65/EU.

The European Commission’s Directorate-General for Environment oversees the implementation of the directive.