ABSTRACT
The manufacturing, use, and end-of-life fates of cars, appliances, and electronics can cause signicant environmental and health problems. This chapter compares differences in vehicle and electronic regulation in the US and the EU. Since July 2006, electronics manufacturers in the EU have been required to remove lead, mercury, cadmium and brominated ame retardants from their products. In the US, in contrast, manufacturers can voluntarily take their products back, but few companies have schemes in place. Manufacturers are not obliged to eliminate toxic substances from cars and electronics except in a few states that have implemented bans. Most electronics governance is voluntary and centers on energy conservation.
