Whale Achieves WEEELABEX Certification
Whale is a young company, but we’ve already reached an important milestone—the WEEELABEX certification is now proudly displayed on our wall!
In the Netherlands, this certification is mandatory for companies that process electronics, ensuring that the recycling process meets high standards in quality, environmental responsibility, and safety.
In this article, we explain:
What WEEELABEX / CENELEC is
Why it’s important for businesses to have their old electronics processed by a certified company
What Is the WEEELABEX/CENELEC Certification?
WEEELABEX and CENELEC are often used interchangeably, though they are not exactly the same.
In July 2015, the Netherlands made it mandatory for electronic waste processors (AEEA – Afgedankte Elektrische en Elektronische Apparaten) to be WEEELABEX-certified.
This requirement stems from the 2012 revision of the European WEEE Directive (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive).
Breaking Down the WEEELABEX Name
WEEELABEX consists of three abbreviations:
WEEE = Waste of Electric and Electronic Equipment
LAB = Label
Ex = Excellence
When WEEELABEX became mandatory in 2015, companies could certify under the WEEELABEX standard.
In late 2020, this standard was replaced by the CENELEC standard under the Regeling AEEA (Dutch Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulation).
CENELEC stands for Comité Européen de Normalisation ELECtrotechnique, the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization.
Why Is WEEELABEX Still Used?
Only the WEEELABEX organization can issue accredited certifications.
However, these certifications are based on CENELEC technical standards.
Are There Multiple CENELEC Standards?
A WEEELABEX certification can be compared to a driver’s license—just as a car license (Category B) doesn’t allow someone to drive a truck, different certifications exist for various processing methods and materials.
Processing Methods
There are four main types of electronic waste processing:
Manual Processing (Dismantling)
Mechanical Processing
Advanced Mechanical Treatment
Re-use (Refurbishment of electronics with waste status)
Different Types of AEEA (Electronic Waste)
LHA – Large household appliances (>50cm)
SHA – Small household appliances (<50cm)
CFA – Cooling and freezing appliances
FPD – Flat panel displays
CRT – Cathode ray tube screens
LAMPS – Gas discharge lamps
PV – Solar panels
Other – Miscellaneous electronics
Additionally, companies can be certified only for Collection and Logistics, which is not mandatory.
This certification does not allow a company to process AEEA, but it demonstrates that e-waste is collected, sorted, and transported professionally.
Why Is This Important for Your Business?
By having your old electronics processed by a WEEELABEX-certified company, you ensure:
✔ Proper handling of your electronic waste
✔ High recovery rates for critical raw materials
✔ Prevention of illegal e-waste exports
✔ Minimal environmental impact during processing
✔ Compliance with safety and data security standards
A WEEELABEX certification also guarantees that processors follow strict guidelines for workplace safety (ARBO regulations) and confidential data handling.
By choosing a certified company, you gain peace of mind knowing that your old electronics are processed responsibly.
What Type of WEEELABEX Certification Did Whale Achieve?
Our certification can be downloaded from our website.
All WEEELABEX-certified companies are also listed on the official WEEELABEX organization website.
Do you have questions about WEEELABEX / CENELEC or want to know how Whale Recycling can support your business?
Feel free to contact us—or reach out via WhatsApp for a quick inquiry.
WHALE take care of IT
