EU’s New Right to Repair Law: What It Means for Manufacturers and Consumers
“Sustainability in Action” Series
By P. Batziaki
The European Union’s Right to Repair Directive (Directive (EU) 2024/1799) will transform the way products are designed, sold, and maintained Aimed at reducing electronic waste and promoting sustainability, this directive requires manufacturers to make products easier to repair, extend their lifespans, and provide access to spare parts and repair manuals.
For manufacturers, on the one hand, this means a shift in product design. Devices must be built with modularity in mind, ensuring that components can be easily replaced rather than the entire product being discarded. Companies that fail to meet these requirements risk penalties and potential market restrictions.
Consumers, on the other hand, stand to benefit from this legislation. With repairability guaranteed, they can extend the lifespan of their products, saving money and reducing environmental impact. The directive also challenges planned obsolescence, where products are intentionally designed to degrade over time.
On the light of the directive, businesses must adjust their strategies to align with the new obligations. For instance, developing repair-friendly designs, providing better after-sales services, and integrating circular principles into product lifecycles will not only ensure compliance but also strengthen customer loyalty. In brief, the Right to Repair Directive is a step toward a more sustainable, consumer-friendly market, urging companies to embrace longevity over disposability.
Next Steps & How We Can Help
The EU’s Right to Repair Directive is pushing manufacturers to rethink product design, ensuring repairability and longevity. Companies must now provide spare parts, repair manuals, and build products that can be easily fixed.
We support manufacturers in conducting product lifecycle assessments and integrating eco-design principles. From developing circular business models, such as leasing and refurbishment, to aligning with new regulatory standards, we help businesses turn repairability requirements into competitive advantages.