Once, before dual voltage became the standard for consumer electronics, there was plentiful physical evidence of the fact that if you plug in across systems without a transformer, the result is either a flame-out or a non-starter.

FORBES: On China Swagger and the Smell of Burning Insulation

American industry and government had also expressed concern that the recycling requirements would put non-EU based producers at a disadvantage, and that the substance ban particularly as regards flame retardants could lower the safety of such products.

CNN: EU proposals aim to reduce electronic waste

First, electronic waste is currently hazardous waste in that it contains lead, mercury, cadmium, brominated flame retardants etc, which are integrally mixed into components and cannot therefore be easily separated from the non-hazardous components.

FORBES: It's Easy Enough To Solve The Problem Of E-Waste