Non-OEM cartridges threaten EU sustainability goals
November 28, 2024
ETIRA, the European trade association for cartridge remanufacturers, reveals alarming non-compliance issues.
ETIRA, the European Toner and Inkjet Remanufacturers Association, has released troubling findings on new non-OEM cartridges, warning that these products threaten compliance, sustainability, and public health across the EU. A four-month investigation revealed that 75% of non-OEM cartridges fail to meet basic EU regulatory standards, with only 8% found fully compliant. By contrast, 85% of remanufactured OEM cartridges adhered to most or all applicable regulations.
The study, conducted between July and November 2024, examined approximately 50 toner cartridges sourced from suppliers operating across six key markets, including Germany, France, Spain, and Italy. The results highlighted systemic non-compliance, with many non-OEM cartridges missing essential CE marks, WEEE registrations, and supplier transparency. Some products were even falsely labelled as “Made in Germany” or “Rebuilt” but were traced to non-EU manufacturing sources.
ETIRA identified recurring issues such as misleading labelling, incomplete supplier details, and CE logos that did not meet EU standards. A particularly egregious case involved cartridges imported from Southeast Asia by a Portuguese intermediary, marketed as locally manufactured. These findings align with earlier ETIRA reports that have consistently flagged similar concerns about market irregularities.
Javier Martinez, ETIRA’s President, described the situation as a severe challenge to fair competition and environmental integrity, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of EU directives like REACH and WEEE. He also called for tougher penalties for non-compliance, noting that over 30% of the market consists of illegal products. “Non-OEM cartridges not only harm the environment but also undermine legitimate businesses committed to sustainability,” Martinez said.
ETIRA said it is actively collaborating with national authorities to address these issues and raise awareness among buyers. The association stresses that importers are legally responsible for ensuring compliance, with potential penalties for failures ranging from fines to reputational damage. Consumers are urged to verify suppliers and choose compliant cartridges to support the EU’s circular economy ambitions.
Remanufactured OEM cartridges, which demonstrated strong compliance, remain a cornerstone of sustainable printing practices. ETIRA continues to advocate for a robust regulatory framework that holds importers accountable, reduces electronic waste, and promotes fair competition.
Categories : World Focus
Tags : Compliance Enforcement ETIRA Sustainability
