EU says fix it, don't ditch it: new repair rules kick in
The EU's new 'right to repair' rules just went live, forcing manufacturers of phones, tablets, washing machines and vacuums to repair products on request even after the warranty expires, at a fair price and within a reasonable time. Countries must also set up national repair platforms (Ireland's is RepairMyStuff.ie) to help people find fixers instead of buyers. The goal: cut the 35 million tonnes of e-waste the EU tosses yearly and unlock €4.8 billion in green economic activity.
Turns out the circular economy needed a law to stop us from just buying a new toaster.