Brought to you by Paulina Caldarelli and Francesca Fattori from Erion 

As Europe accelerates its transition toward a circular economy, the reuse of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is becoming a key strategy to reduce pressure on raw materials, cut carbon emissions, and generate new social and economic opportunities. In this context, the RISE Laboratory of the University of Brescia presented a comprehensive study in November 2024 (soon available online as well), aimed at exploring the potential of the reuse sector in Italy, while drawing useful comparisons with the French model of Envie Rhône-Alpes—one of the most advanced initiatives in this field. 

Mapping the reuse landscape in Italy

The research focused on large household appliances—washing machines, dishwashers, fridges, ovens—covering both second-hand and transport-damaged devices (AEE) as well as actual WEEE (categories R1 and R2). Over twenty interviews and site visits were conducted across the supply chain, involving manufacturers, retailers, logistic operators, recycling plants, and collective compliance schemes. 

Three main reuse models were identified in the Italian context: 

1. Refurbishment of returned or damaged AEE; 

2. Preparation for reuse of WEEE with an economic purpose; 

3. Preparation for reuse of WEEE with a social purpose, often through pilot initiatives. 

However, these models remain largely fragmented and experimental. None of the current Italian initiatives can stand on their own financially without external funding or support. This signals the need for structural innovation and a more supportive regulatory environment. 

Learning from the French model

France, through the experience of Envie Rhône-Alpes, offers a mature and scalable model where environmental, economic, and social goals coexist. Envie operates as a social enterprise, employing people in vulnerable situations and refurbishing WEEE for resale at affordable prices. 

The French system benefits from: 

• Concrete reuse targets (e.g., 2% of products placed on the market), 

• Eco-contributions used to finance reuse preparation activities, 

• Structured reuse centres, 

• Access to parts from dismantled devices, 

• State-supported employment contracts that promote social reintegration. 

This integrated ecosystem makes the reuse of WEEE both feasible and impactful, unlike the still-nascent Italian scenario. 

Strategic pathways for Italy

Despite current limitations, the study highlights three potential pathways for a viable reuse sector in Italy: 

1. Retail-led resale of refurbished appliances, building on existing trade-in models; 

2. Product-as-a-Service models, such as leasing appliances and reclaiming them for refurbishment at the end of the contract; 

3. End-to-end pilot projects, coordinated by WEEE consortia, with recognised reuse operators and partial eco-contribution funding. 

However, these models need strong informational and digital support systems. This is where the Digital Product Passport (DPP) becomes a game-changer. 

The strategic role of the Digital Product Passport

The DPP—introduced in the European Commission’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation—is a digital tool designed to accompany a product throughout its lifecycle, providing structured data on composition, repairability, maintenance, and end-of-life management. 

When applied to WEEE reuse, the DPP can play a crucial enabling role by: 

• Improving traceability and selection: Access to the product’s history (usage, repairs, failures) helps reuse operators identify items with high potential for a second life, while minimising waste. 

• Facilitating efficient preparation: Technicians can access repair manuals, component codes, and disassembly instructions, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. 

• Building consumer trust: The passport acts as a digit al certificate, detailing the condition, interventions, and traceability of refurbished products, helping customers make informed and confident purchases. 

Conclusion 

WEEE reuse in Italy is still in its early stages, but the study by the RISE Laboratory shows there is a concrete path forward—if regulatory, financial, and digital tools align. Among them, the Digital Product Passport stands out as a strategic asset: it enhances transparency, supports operational efficiency, and strengthens consumer confidence. 

In the near future, a digital passport could do for an appliance what a service booklet does for a car—becoming a symbol of trust, added value, and shared responsibility across the entire product chain.