Reliable and safe collection of waste electrical equipment

SENS collection points vs sales outlets

The SENS recycling system includes two different types of collection points. 

SENS collection point

SENS collection points are public or private collection points that have voluntarily joined the SENS recycling system. They accept all electrical and electronic equipment covered by the system, regardless of brand or place of purchase.

These collection points have a valid cantonal operating licence, as well as a waste acceptance licence in accordance with the Waste Movements Ordinance (VeVA). Their purpose is to properly collect, sort and recycle old equipment and thus promote the reuse of materials.

Sales outlets (subject to take-back obligation)

Sales outlets, such as specialist retailers or manufacturers’ stores, are legally obliged to take back used electrical equipment free of charge, although this applies only to products that are similar to those in their own range. This obligation is based on the Ordinance on the Return, Taking Back and Disposal of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (ORDEE).

Requirements for collection

Collection points are the first point of contact in the SENS recycling system. They are responsible for the correct acceptance, storage and distribution of waste electrical equipment. For the collection to be carried out efficiently and securely in compliance with the law, clear requirements must be met.

These include free-of-charge acceptance during staffed opening hours, collection of waste equipment by type without packaging and ensuring that the equipment remains as intact as possible. Stored items must be protected from the weather and secured against unauthorised access. Once the minimum collection quantity has been met, equipment must be placed in standardised, properly labelled containers prior to transportation and reported digitally in the SENS portal.

Complying with these requirements ensures that the take-back process functions in a reliable, legally compliant manner while conserving resources.