Under the new directive, manufacturers must provide timely and cost-effective repair services, even after the statutory warranty period has expired. They also give consumers better access to spare parts, tools and repair information. The statutory warranty for goods repaired under the warranty is extended by one more year, which further encourages consumers to choose repair instead of replacement, the press release of the EP shows.
To facilitate the repair process, a European online platform will be created to help consumers find local repair shops, sellers of refurbished products, buyers of defective products or community-led repair initiatives. Manufacturers may not use contract clauses, hardware or software techniques that prevent repair.
All Member States will be obliged to implement at least one measure to promote repair, such as repair vouchers, funds, information campaigns, repair courses or support for community-led repair centres.
The new rules are expected to bring €4.8 billion in growth and investment within the EU, while reducing waste and resource use.
The rapporteur, René Repasi, hailed the legislation as a major achievement in consumer empowerment in the fight against climate change. Following official approval by the Council of the European Union and publication in the Official Journal of the EU, member states will have 24 months to transpose the directive into their national law. The directive complements other new EU rules on eco-design and consumers’ contribution to the green transition, and is a direct response to citizens’ demands expressed at the conference on the future of Europe.
Cover image source: Getty Images
Tags: dealing cheeky trick manufacturers
