Right to repair has been a hot topic lately as France and the broader EU implement sustainable policies to make fixing old electronics more feasible. Starting this summer, consumers in the UK can feel more confident in their appliance purchases as well as a new law mandates that producers make spare parts available for all appliances for at least 10 years after their distribution.
The availability of repair parts will not only be environmentally impactful, but it will also financially benefit consumers who won’t have to purchase an entire new appliance when theirs malfunctions. In addition to part availability, the law also tightens up energy efficiency ratings by moving from an A+, A++, and A+++ rankings scale to an A through G version that more accurately communicates how energy efficient a machine is.
Similar right-to-repair policies will take effect in the EU in April 2021. The law is primarily aimed at reducing e-waste, but it is also a requirement if UK producers want to sell their goods in the EU, so there is an added economic motivation behind the initiative.
“Our plans to tighten product standards will ensure more electrical goods can be fixed rather than thrown on the scrap heap – putting more money back in the pockets of consumers whilst protecting the environment,” said Business and Energy Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng.
