The European Union is trying to promote sustainability and reduce electronic waste by introducing new repairability scores for smartphones and tablets
Thus, new repairability scores will be displayed on EU Energy Labels, providing consumers with a clearer understanding of a device’s repairability before making a purchase.
By creating this, the EU aims to enable consumers to make environmentally conscious decisions while saving money through the implementation of the Ecodesign and Energy Labelling Regulations. By promoting transparency about repairability, the EU aims to enhance product longevity, reduce electronic waste, and foster a more circular economy.
An A-to-E rating system
The new repairability label will include a score ranging from A (most repairable) to E (least repairable). This score is determined through a scientific method developed by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). The methodology evaluates several key factors, including how easily a product can be disassembled, the tools required, the availability of replacement parts, and whether repair information is accessible.
These factors focus on key components of electronic devices, often referred to as “priority parts.” The overall assessment is then aggregated into the final score, which is displayed on the label. This helps consumers quickly understand whether a product is likely to be easy and cost-effective to repair over its lifetime.
Economic and environmental benefits
According to the 2024 Ecodesign Impact Accounting Overview Report, the combined impact of the updated Ecodesign and Energy Labelling Regulations, including the introduction of the repairability score, could lead to big savings and emissions reductions. By 2030, European consumers could collectively save up to €20 billion, while the regulations could reduce CO₂ emissions by an estimated 0.2 million tonnes per year.
Extending the lifespan of smartphones and tablets means fewer resources are needed for manufacturing new products, and less electronic waste is sent to landfills. As a result, the EU is not only helping consumers reduce costs but also supporting its broader environmental goals under the Clean Industrial Deal.
Repairs sector and local jobs
The new score is expected to benefit not only individual consumers but also the broader economy. By encouraging demand for longer-lasting, repair-friendly products, the EU also hopes to boost the repair industry. This could lead to more local repair businesses and job creation across member states, sustainably strengthening the economy.
Products that score higher in repairability may become more appealing to environmentally conscious consumers, encouraging manufacturers to improve their designs to stay competitive. Overall, this could promote innovation that aligns with the principles of a circular economy.
The European Commission has suggested that this is just the beginning. Under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) framework, the repairability score system may be expanded to cover additional types of electronics and small household appliances. This continued push aims to make sustainable product designs the norm across a wide range of consumer goods.
