Starting today, the EU's right-to-repair law takes effect, making it easier for consumers to fix electrical devices rather than replace them. Under the new rules, sellers must offer a repair as an option when returning faulty devices during the warranty period, provided the repair costs less than replacing the item. This ensures that consumers are fully aware of their choices and can make more sustainable decisions.
The regulation applies mostly to large household appliances like dishwashers and dryers, as well as e-bikes and e-scooters. Devices with screens — such as TVs and smartphones — are included, but laptops are not. Smaller appliances like coffee machines and irons are currently not covered, though the law will expand to include more products over time. The EU plans to gradually add additional items to the list of covered products, promoting an ongoing shift toward repairability.
Key Requirements for Manufacturers
Manufacturers must provide replacement parts, tools, and instructions for repairs, and they cannot use software or design features that make fixing devices impossible. Repairs during the warranty period also extend the warranty by an additional year. This ensures that consumers not only benefit from repair options but also from extended guarantees when choosing to repair their devices.
The law also covers older models that are no longer in production. For instance, washing machine spare parts must be available for 10 years after the model is discontinued. For smartphones, manufacturers must provide spare parts for seven years. Starting in February 2027, all battery-powered devices must use replaceable batteries. This requirement aims to further enhance the lifespan of electronic devices and reduce waste.
Environmental and consumer groups celebrate the new law as a breakthrough for sustainability. Wolfgang Heckl, a non-fiction author and former museum director, highlighted the dangers of improper electronic waste disposal, noting how children in Africa sift through dangerous landfills. Heckl said: “Let's just think of the electronic waste, (...) where children in Africa have to search through the garbage dumps under precarious conditions.”
According to EU figures, improper disposal of electronics in Europe wastes 30 million tonnes of materials and creates 35 million tonnes of waste annually. Consumers lose about 12 billion euros yearly due to unnecessary replacements. This highlights the urgent need for policies that reduce waste and promote a more sustainable economy.
Industry Concerns and Challenges
The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) argues the rules add too much complexity for manufacturers and retailers. It warns of unfair competition, particularly from low-cost, hard-to-repair products imported directly from China. Dirk Binding from the DIHK said that sticking to EU regulations could hurt European manufacturers, saying: “It will result in competitive disadvantages if we adhere to the applicable law in Germany and Europe and others from third countries do not comply with this law.”
The EU also aims to revitalize the independent repair market. Repairs don’t have to be done by the original manufacturer — companies are required to support third-party repairs and even allow the use of parts made by other manufacturers or individuals. This approach encourages a diverse and competitive repair market, which can benefit both consumers and the environment.
Promoting Independent Repairs and Sustainability
The implementation of the right-to-repair law marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future. By promoting repairability, the EU not only seeks to reduce waste and the environmental impact of electronic devices but also to foster economic opportunities for local repair businesses. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and responsible consumption across Europe.
As the law takes shape in the coming months and years, it will be essential to monitor its impact on manufacturers, retailers, and independent repair shops. The balance between promoting sustainability and managing the complexities of implementation will be crucial for the success of the right-to-repair movement.