What happened
The European Commission has begun a public consultation and call for evidence on possible EU ecodesign requirements intended to improve product repairability. Responses will feed into an impact assessment for a potential delegated act under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation.
The exercise seeks evidence on barriers encountered by consumers and repair businesses. It also asks for views on access to spare parts, repair and maintenance documentation, software and firmware, product disassembly and reassembly, and repairability information or scores at the point of sale.
Why it matters
The proposed approach could affect businesses supplying products to the EU market if new horizontal repairability rules are adopted. The Commission says the measure is intended to lengthen product use, cut waste and give consumers more options when repairing everyday goods.
Product groups under preliminary consideration include certain audio and video products, wearables and peripherals; some e-bikes, self-balancing devices and e-scooters; and small electrical household and personal-care appliances. Products already governed by product-specific rules, voluntary arrangements or other frameworks may be excluded to prevent overlapping requirements.
Background
The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation took effect on 18 July 2024. It provides the EU framework for ecodesign requirements for specified product groups, with a wider remit than earlier rules focused on energy-related products.
What's next
Businesses, public bodies, repair professionals, consumer groups, environmental organisations and individuals can submit contributions in any EU official language. The consultation closes at midnight Brussels time on 9 February 2027. The Commission currently expects a possible delegated act to be adopted in 2027.
