The repair of electronic equipment is, in general, an expensive, time-consuming process that can even influence the sale of new products. However, repair can be a huge help in environmental matters.
The European Parliament recently approved the “right to repair” and will require manufacturers to have a “clear and visible” label on the repairability of products.
Right to Repair: support for second-hand markets and support for sustainable production
MEPs approved last Wednesday the 'right to repair' to make repairs' more attractive, systematic and cost-effective, either by extending warranties, providing warranties for replaced parts or better access to repair and maintenance information“.
The approved text proposes new rules for the elimination of legal barriers that prevent the repair, resale and reuse of equipment. The proposal was approved by 395 votes in favor, 94 against and 207 abstentions.
Great news ???? The @Europarl_EN has sent a clear call for more sustainable and durable goods:
✅ Legal guarantees on product lifespan ????
✅ Measures to tackle premature obsolescence ⚙️
✅ Right to repair ????Read more: https://t.co/4tnyzwtfbo pic.twitter.com/2rl9mqrHKf
— The Consumer Voice (@beuc) November 24, 2020
Among the various measures defined in the initiative is support for second-hand markets and support for sustainable production. In addition, a common charging system is required to reduce e-waste, a battle that is currently the subject of debate among mobile device manufacturers.
One of the measures cited by MEPs to increase sustainable production in the EU is to introduction of common charger to reduce the production of electronic waste, an initiative already defended at several times in the European assembly, but which deserves the opposition of technological companies such as Apple, which has its own equipment.
According to a Eurobarometer survey, 77% of EU citizens prefer to repair their devices rather than replace them, while 79% believe that manufacturers should be legally obliged to facilitate the repair of digital devices or the replacement of their individual parts.
EU consumers should enjoy a “right to repair”
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