EU energy label: Evaluate smartphones and tablets sustainably now!

EU energy label: Evaluate smartphones and tablets sustainably now!

From June 20, 2023, the EU will release a new energy label for smartphones and tablets. This is intended to make not only the energy efficiency, but also the repairability and durability of digital devices more transparent. Loud ZVW The label informs about various important aspects that help consumers make more sustainable purchasing decisions. Data is provided on energy efficiency, battery life, as well as the robustness of the devices in the event of falls and their protection against dust and moisture.

The European Commission has set itself the goal of reducing electricity and CO2 emissions through these regulations. In the future, manufacturers will have to meet certain requirements for eco-design, including ensuring long-lasting batteries and providing essential spare parts. There should also be longer availability of software updates to make the devices more sustainable.

Transparent information for consumers

The new label, similar to the well-known energy label for household appliances, shows energy efficiency on a color-coded scale from A to G. A stands for the best and G for the least efficient. The label also shows important information about battery life, the number of possible charges and the repairability index, as the consumer advice center says in its report reveals.

A crucial point is the repairability index: devices that are easy to repair are marked with an A, while those that are difficult to repair are given an E. This brings a new level of comparability to the market and promotes conscious consumption. However, the costs of replacement parts and repairs are not part of this assessment, which raises questions about the actual cost-effectiveness.

Long-term perspectives and challenges

As part of the new regulations, the EU also promises more stringent requirements for the longer use of smartphones and tablets. From mid-2024, manufacturers will be required to provide their devices with updates for at least five years. Among other things, comprehensive repair instructions must be provided for up to seven years after purchase. This has the potential to significantly reduce waste and is seen as part of the EU's Circular Economy Action Plan under the Green Deal, such as Heise described in detail.

In addition, the introduction of a uniform USB-C port is expected, which could save up to 1,000 tons of electronic waste annually. However, manufacturers need to rethink their approach because compliance with the new requirements could lead to an increase in the price of devices, as longer warranty periods for updates and the provision of spare parts could result in higher costs.

The new regulation not only brings transparency for consumers, but also challenges manufacturers to bring more sustainable products onto the market. It remains exciting to see how the implementation of these guidelines will affect the industry.