Empowering consumers – European Parliament adopts the ‘Right to Repair’

This week, the European Parliament has voted to enact new rules introducing the “Right to Repair” for consumers. The legislation prioritises the repair of goods during their guarantee period, aiming to reduce unnecessary waste, with exceptions made when repair costs exceed replacement or are not feasible.

Speaking from the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Ireland South MEP Deirdre Clune, said: “The Right to Repair legislation aims to encourage consumers to repair products instead of opting for replacements. By ensuring access to affordable spare parts for independent repairers and offering more choices for consumers, the legislation aligns with the European Green Deal objectives of sustainable consumption and circular economy.

“The proposal addresses the environmental impact of premature disposal of goods and aims to reduce carbon emissions, resource use, and waste in the EU.”

Clune emphasised the importance of empowering consumers, stating: “In the long run, this new legislation will bring about significant savings for consumers. Currently, EU consumers lose around €12 billion every year by choosing replacement over repair.

“This proposal covers a wide range of products, from washing machines to smartphones to bicycles. Producers and sellers will have to offer free repairs within the legal guarantee period, making repair more accessible.

“Additionally, it encourages consumers to choose repair over replacement by extending the legal guarantee by one year for repaired products, and implementing initiatives such as providing replacement devices on loan during repairs, promoting refurbished goods, ensuring availability of spare parts for independent repairers, and offering financial incentives for choosing repair,” Clune explained.

The proposal will now move into trilogues, where negotiations with the European Council will finalise the text.