The European Union wants to improve the autonomy and repairability of smartphones: a first bill was published this week according to which producers will have to:
- provide at least 15 different spare parts to professional repairers for 5 years from the start of a device’s sales;
- guarantee direct access to end consumers to the most common spare parts such as batteries, displays, chargers, back covers and even SIM / memory card trolleys for 5 years from the start of a device’s sales.
- adopt an energy label completely similar to that seen in other device classes, for example televisions and so-called “white” appliances (microwaves, dishwashers, refrigerators, ovens …)
In fact the EU this would increase the life cycle of the phones to five years on average, with multiple advantages – not only the pockets of consumers would benefit, but it would significantly reduce pollution, both on the production side and on the volume of waste generated, while encouraging the recycling and reuse of the most precious raw materials .
According to the estimates of the Financial Timesthe move would be equivalent to remove 5 million cars from the roads. It is worth noting that the EU also cited ecological reasons as part of the universal charger initiative, saying that this accessory alone generates up to 11,000 tonnes of electronic waste per year (in Europe alone, of course).
Already at present the draft provides for some clauses and exceptions. To begin with, it will not apply to devices designed to be used in high-security environments, nor to folding devices or in general with flexible displays designed to be rolled up, even partially, by the user. Additionally, if the manufacturer is unable to supply replacement batteries for at least five years, they will need to provide much stricter durability certifications. Specifically: the battery must have at least 80% of residual capacity after 1,000 cycles of full recharge. Manufacturers will also be obliged to ensure that software updates do not have a negative impact on overall autonomy.
According to the NGO ECOS (Environmental Coalition on Standards), the proposal is a good first step in the right direction, but there is room for improvement. For example: why allow manufacturers to choose between a super durable battery or five years of spare parts? It would be better to oblige them to respect both clauses. Also, why put limits on the type of spare parts directly available to consumers? Unnecessary limits are placed on do-it-yourself repairs.
