Linking bar codes to recycling information for mobile phones

The EU directive on WEEE (Waste Electric and Electronic Equipment) was enacted February 2003, mandating product take back and recycling. Among other provisions, WEEE also requires manufacturers to provide information to recyclers and dismantlers on the dismantlement of products, and on the location of dangerous substances. To fulfill the requirements for a broad range of information on their products, manufacturers must address two problems at the same time. They need to gather and develop the necessary information on products, and they need to provide the information to recycling and dismantlement facilities. To address this problem, a system was developed, which links the existing bar codes on mobile phones to web sites containing disassembly information. The system makes use of the barcode label containing the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number, which is on every GSM mobile phone. The IMEI contains information on the manufacturer and the model type. By scanning the IMEI barcode, typing in the IMEI number or the model type, the program automatically connects with the appropriate web site containing the disassembly information. The recycler can thus access the information needed for treatment by simply scanning the barcodes. Reports on disassembly and on the location of substances listed in the directive are generated for mobile phones and other product at the Motorola REAL (Rapid Environmental Assessment Lab) following standard procedures. The disassembly reports contain a step-by-step description of the disassembly sequence and information on the location and the type of hazardous substance used. The demonstrator proves the concept of linking disassembly information by scanning a product barcode. Thus the information needed by recyclers can be stored and obtained efficiently and cost effectively.