An important feature of the WEEE Directive is the idea of "producer compliance" or the responsibility of hardware makers to prepare for the eventuality of disposal, recycling and reuse. Part of the setup of the WEEE Directive involves distinguishing between electronic goods that were sold prior to 2005, when the law took effect, and those sold after 2005. The WEEE Directive has helped lower the amount of hazardous waste disposed into the general environment in the UK and in European Union member countries.

The WEEE Directive does not apply in the United States. However, American counterparts commonly use the term "electronic waste" or "e-waste" when talking about regulations for the disposal, reuse or recycling of electrical/electronic products or parts that may contain heavy metals like lead, cadmium, beryllium, etc., that can be dangerous to the environment.