EU right to repair directive takes effect for electronics

A European Union directive aimed at establishing a ‘right to repair’ officially came into effect on July 31. The regulation is designed to reduce the premature disposal of functional goods, combat planned obsolescence, lower costs for households, and encourage more sustainable consumption patterns.

Under the directive, manufacturers of specific electrical and electronic goods will be obligated to repair products even after the warranty has expired, provided the items are still repairable. Affected categories include smartphones, tablets, refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, servers, and certain domestic heating appliances.

While the directive is active across EU member states, Italy has missed the implementation deadline. The necessary legislative decree is currently under parliamentary review, meaning the new rules in Italy may not take effect until the second half of August. Consumer group Altroconsumo noted that while the directive is a significant turning point for sustainability, its success depends on the implementation of concrete tools to facilitate its use.