Global electronic waste volume is projected to grow to approximately 75 million tonnes by 2030. It is time for Repair, Reuse, and proper Materials Recovery to become the dominant factor in the management of electronic equipment and the word “e-waste” is removed from the lexicon
I attended the International Electronics Recycling Congress in Salzburg in January. One of the main topics of discussion was Reuse and Right to Repair.
Repair parts should be easily available.
Eliminating special tool requirements (except for safety issues)
Supplying clear and easy to use product repair manuals.
In addition, when products do reach the end of their usable life, it should be easy for e-waste recyclers to recover the constituent materials for reuse.
The closed loop……
New product
Repair for reuse
Recycle materials for reuse in new products.
It is good to see that Google is stepping up to the plate.
Earlier this month, Google reaffirmed their support for the Right to Repair movement by releasing a White Paper on repair while endorsing the proposed State of Oregon, Right to Repair legislation
The legislation is aimed at bringing tech companies, small repair companies, environmental leaders and legislators to the table to find common ground and support the repair movement.
Calling it design for serviceability, Google says repair must be easy enough for anyone to do, whether they are technicians or do-it-your-self consumers. This will require manufacturers to design products in a manner that enables simple, safe, and effective repairs no matter where or by whom they are carried out.
The legislation is a win for consumers who are looking for affordable repair options, for the environment, and for companies that are prepared to invest in making their products more repairable and sustainable.
The full Google Public Policy release can be found HERE
