The resource cycle begins with extraction of resources from mother earth and ends with with all these resources in the form of emissions and waste - apart from those resources, which are recycled. In this cycle diposing of waste in the rigth way is of great importance. To the hightest degree possible the amount of waste (and emissions) should be reduced by recycling and the remaining waste should be in such a form, that it can be deposited safely.

Today manufacturers hold no responsibility for the waste resulting from their products once they are scrapped. Consequently the problem of disposing of this waste is not considered when manufacturers are designing their products, selecting assembly methods and choosing materials. They are optimizing the competetiveness of the process, they hold responsibility for. In doing so waste disposal problems may often become greater than necessary.

This picture could be changed, if manufacturers were given a take back obligation for their products at the end of their lifetime, combined with an obligation for safe waste disposal. Being competetive in this part of the resource cycle would then also enter in the product design process. Other materials might be choosen and assembly methods might be changed (for instance sandwhich constructions would be avoided). Marking components for material identification would be done.

In some cases manufacturers would themselves take care of the disposal operation. Automobile manufactureres are experimenting with dis-assembly lines to prepare themselves for the eventuality of take back obligations. Others could pay special operotors to take care of the job.

The take back obligation is a market economic instrument on line with eco taxes, and thus gives flexibility and room for innovation like taxes. It could make important contribution to a better environment.