The environmental issue on CFCs in the optimization of the Italian system for WEEE recycling

The fast innovation cycle of electrical and electronic equipments (EEEs) pose the problem of a large waste production. The correct disposal of WEEE is strictly needed because of their content in hazardous materials, like heavy metals and environmentally dangerous chemicals, which substances can be very dangerous both for the human health and the environment in which they are released. Chlorofl uorocarbons (CFCs) are largely present in a particular class of WEEE, cooling and freezing equipment. CFCs are well recognized as ozone-depleting gases and can have an impact on the global warming higher than CO2. Being Northern Italy the primary source of CFC in Europe, the Italian WEEE Management System development has been investigated, with a focus on cooling and freezing equipment and related CFCs disposal.