New EU law: Repair instead of throwing away-this is how consumers benefit!

New EU law: Repair instead of throwing away-this is how consumers benefit!

Stendal, Deutschland - What does the new EU regulation "right to repair"? From tomorrow, June 20, 2025, new rules for manufacturers of cell phones and tablets that have been adopted in Brussels will come into force. This initiative aims to give consumers more rights and opportunities to repair their devices. According to MDR in the future, manufacturers will have to make spare parts accessible and information for repair.

As part of the regulation, a new energy label for smartphones is also introduced, which evaluates the repair and break strength of the devices. This measure follows the model of washing machines and is another step towards sustainable consumption. It is interesting that, according to the Saxony-Anhalt Consumer Center, 89% of consumers want their defective devices repair, but in fact only about 23% are repaired. Here Susanne Riedel from the consumer center sees the actual benefit of the new EU directive, which is a strengthening of consumer rights.

repair cafés and local initiatives

In connection with this reform, local initiatives such as repair cafes also come to the fore. Dietrich Zosel, operator of such a café in Stendal, has already pointed out the high costs of spare parts and suggests an extension of the guarantee period. The repair of defective devices is also used in the Repair Café Stendal, whereby parts are occasionally reproduced with a 3D printer. However, he must report that the integration of old devices is refused by the local waste disposal company.

In order to further improve the situation for consumers, there are suggestions for a nationwide platform in the room that lists reliable repair companies and offers premiums for repaired devices. This could not only make the repair process easier, but also make it more attractive.

effects and goals of the guideline

The EU directive on repair was ultimately adopted on June 13, 2024 and aims to promote the repair of goods. It specifies the manufacturers 'obligations and sets incentives to increase consumers' interest in repairs. The manufacturers are now obliged to offer repairs inexpensively and to clarify their customers about their rights. The increased liability periods are an important detail; Repairs within the warranty period lead to an extension of the liability period by one year. More information about the guideline can be read in the official document on EUR-Lex

annually, the early disposal of consumer goods in the EU creates around 261 million tons of CO2 equivalent and 35 million tons of waste, while consumers accept losses of around 12 billion euros annually by buying new devices instead of repairs. The new regulations have the potential to trigger growth of 4.8 billion euros in investments in the EU and are a reaction to the concerns of the citizens from the conference on the future of Europe. This puts a stronger focus on sustainable consumption and growth, as well as Europarl reported.

With these new measures, a more sustainable handling of technology and devices could be promoted - and in the end not only the consumer's wallet benefits, but also the environment. Now it is time to use the new rights!