UK consumers have a recycling problem.

Here are some disquieting facts from a story published in the NewStatesman (London) on February 5, 2007. Women in the United Kingdom (UK) discard their blow dryers after owning them for only three years. They buy another one, "Simply because it looks better," says the magazine. Average ownership of cell phones is a mere 18 months. Citing Do-It-Yourself (DIY) manufacturers as its source, the magazine said most power drills are either "lost or discarded" after one weekend.

The rate at which British consumers dispose of products they buy is the highest in Europe. The trend creates enormous problems for the UK in solid waste management.

Thus, a new law, mandated by the European Union (EU) requires manufacturers, "Of everything from electric toothbrushes and hairdryers to kettles, lighting equipment and washing machines will be forced to take back their products for recycling." Recycling sites maintained by local governments and paid for by the manufacturers are expected to provide the logistical support of the very large amount of returns expected.