Long-lasting electrical appliances are desirable, yet confronted with an issue
In the pursuit of a more sustainable future, the European Union (EU) is facing challenges in implementing resource-saving regulations for smartphones. The regulations, while well-intentioned, may not fit the reality of a throwaway society, as they do not address the issue of manufacturers building devices to become obsolete quickly.
The EU Commission is planning to set specific eco-design requirements for smartphones and tablets for the first time in the coming months. However, the main problem with the new regulations is the lack of a central institution to monitor manufacturers' compliance at the EU level. Instead, the task of monitoring compliance falls to state authorities in Germany, working with entities like the Stiftung Elektro-Altgeräte Register (stiftung ear).
In Germany, the task of monitoring compliance for manufacturers' adherence to the regulations falls to state authorities, coordinated under the EU framework for market surveillance as established by Regulation (EU) 2019/1020. The authorities can only perform spot checks and impose a fine of up to 50,000 euros for violations, which may be insignificant for large corporations.
Maximilian Wormit, an expert in the field, points out that the implementing regulations for the new EU ecodesign requirements for electrical devices are difficult to navigate, taking up over 100 pages in the EU Official Journal. He suggests that the European legislator should introduce specific warranty periods for certain product groups that take into account the technical feasibility of the device's lifespan.
The mass-consumer item smartphone is not mentioned in the current regulations. Only eco-design requirements for displays with a screen area of over 100 square centimeters are set in the regulations. The unified charging standard for smartphones is still unachieved in the EU.
Experience shows that some products on the market do not meet the energy labeling requirements, indicating a lack of effective monitoring. The lack of software-upgradability in many devices is a concern, and manufacturers should be held more accountable for ensuring the devices' upgradeability.
As we move towards a more sustainable future, it is crucial to strengthen the awareness in the population that resources are finite, and the willingness to repair can contribute to making the most of our resources. Storing spare parts for seven to ten years in the future can cause costs that will be passed on to consumers, potentially burdening them further.
In conclusion, while the EU is making strides towards implementing resource-saving regulations for electrical devices, there is still much work to be done, particularly in the area of smartphones and ensuring manufacturers are held accountable for their practices contributing to planned obsolescence.
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