Advocates argue new EU repair regulations may fail to unlock significant economic and environmental benefits.
As the European Union prepares to implement new repair regulations, the collective voice of repair businesses and Right to Repair (R2R) advocates, represented by a coalition of over 130 organisations across Europe, is growing louder. They express growing concerns that the proposed rules may not go far enough, fearing that without stronger provisions, the EU could miss a critical opportunity to bolster the repair economy.
Key issues raised by the advocates include the need for affordable access to spare parts and comprehensive bans on anti-repair practices, such as parts-pairing—where manufacturers restrict the compatibility of replacement parts. According to the coalition, these measures are essential for reducing e-waste, creating jobs and making repairs more accessible to consumers.
Adding to the uncertainty, the imaging equipment ecodesign legislation currently being developed raises questions about what will be classed as a professional repairer or remanufacturer. How these roles will be managed and accredited remains to be seen, leaving repair businesses concerned about the future regulatory landscape.
The advocates warn that addressing these concerns is necessary for the regulations to deliver the full potential of a thriving European repair economy. They argue that the current proposals might lead to a system where only large manufacturers benefit while small businesses and consumers have limited options.
As the EU continues to deliberate on these regulations, the coalition urges policymakers to consider the long-term benefits of a robust repair economy prioritising affordability, accessibility, and sustainability.
