New EU labels to help consumers choose more repairable electronics

Consumers can now have more information on how easy it is to repair their smartphones and tablets.  

The Commission has introduced a new repairability score system, which will be displayed on the new Energy Label that accompanies these electronic products. This way, consumers will be able to make more sustainable choices when purchasing these products.  

The repairability scores provide a clear and easy-to-understand rating of a product's repairability from A (highest) to E (lowest) and are based on a rigorous scientific method developed by the JRC.  

The method takes into account key product components (‘priority parts’) and various factors that influence repairability (‘parameters’), such as the steps needed for disassembly, the tools needed to access the components for replacement, or the extent to which spare parts and repair information are available.  

The assessment of all these parameters results in the aggregated repairability score which will be displayed on EU Energy Labels.

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Annual 0.2 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent potentially saved 

By increasing the average lifetime of smartphones and tablets, consumers can not only save money, but also help reduce the environmental impact of electronics production and waste. According to the 2024 Ecodesign Impact Accounting Overview Report, the Ecodesign Regulation and Energy Labelling Regulation  which include the repairability score - could save 0.2 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year and  €20 billion for consumers by 2030. 

Furthermore, the score is expected to stimulate consumer demand for more repairable products, leading to strengthening competitiveness on the basis of sustainability, a flourishing repairs sector and the creation of local EU jobs. 

As the EU continues to push for a more circular economy in line with the Clean Industrial Deal, the Commission has announced plans to consider further repairability requirements under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) framework, potentially including repairability scores for other consumer electronics and small household appliances.