We've written a lot recently about the mindful parts and also those after recovery. As it turned out, the timing of all these texts was perfect because it coincided with a storm that, having swept through individual countries, finally reached the face of the European Commission.
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In previous posts, we debunked the myths about components after regeneration, and we also argued how many benefits can be obtained from using used components. If all these services are additionally offered by a proven partner who is able to offer more than a simple start-up warranty, then we have a full picture that, apart from absolutely new devices and parts, there is something more.
What is at stake?
However, many manufacturers of various types of equipment did not notice it, or - even worse - knew, but also knew what was at stake. If you look at the most popular markets, those that offer goods from the category of everyday use (telephones, TV sets, kitchen appliances, etc.), it turns out that there are no talks about repairs or regenerations within them. Instead of doing this, it is better to buy a completely new device. And no, you cannot make this purchase by your own choice. We have long since been deprived of him.
- Today it is very difficult to find spare parts, and as if that were not enough, all devices are soldered, glued and riveted - said Roman Hottgenroth, who runs a workshop in Hamburg, where used, and often damaged devices that he repairs and gives them second life. - Very often there are situations in which devices are designed in such a way that opening them is tantamount to their destruction. In my opinion, such practices should be banned - he added, quoted by the portal "ideas.ted.com".
Politicians agree
Interestingly, more and more European politicians have a similar opinion on the subject. The case was loud for some time, and finally it was included in the calculation of the aforementioned European Commission. They called for the repair of everyday products to be easier, more widely available, and most importantly - profitable.
Effect? The first assumptions of the so-called Ecodesign, which will define the framework in which it will be necessary to include standards not only for repair, but also for the service life of the equipment. The replacement of individual components will no longer be a luxury that usually meant the end of the warranty period, but a requirement that will be put on the shoulders of manufacturers. They will have 15 days to deliver the necessary replacements.
This is what the EU resolution itself proclaims for now, but it is worth remembering that a similar provision on the right to repair was also included in another document, namely in the "Green Order", which saw the light of day in 2019.
Life philosophy
The iFixit organization, which already has over ten million members, also intends to monitor the promise to be kept. It is a whole movement, even a philosophy of life, which aims to show that repair is very often a much better solution, both financially and ecologically. "If you can't open something, it doesn't belong to you" - that is the main slogan of the movement.
How does all of this relate to the industrial automation industry? First and foremost, it's about raising awareness. Unfortunately, for many people a used or remanufactured component is something of an inferior quality. The launch of this subject on such wide waters can only bring long-term benefits.
