From the summer onwards, new EU rules on mobile phones have come into effect.
The new rule is mainly that mobile phones should become more durable over time.
In order to comply with this rule, several new features are being introduced at the same time.
One of the most talked about adjustments is that all mobile phones must now withstand water, dust and have durable protection against “accidental falls or scratches”.
– Eco-design requirements will apply to smartphones and tablets that are released on the EU market, the European Commission confirms in a statement.
Will benefit the environment and consumers
The purpose of the new rules is several. First, the carbon dioxide pressure within the EU is to decrease, and secondly, consumers are to benefit.
As a result, the EU is also introducing rules on disassembly and repair, which means that the manufacturer will be obliged to provide spare parts within 5-10 working days and for seven years after the product has been sold.
In addition, additional requirements are now being implemented.
For example, all mobile phones will then be sold with a label that is currently commonly seen on white goods such as refrigerators and washing machines.
This is an energy label that must provide information about the energy efficiency and battery life of phones and tablets. The protection against dust, water and falls must also be stated on the label.
– This energy label will help EU consumers make more informed and sustainable purchasing choices and encourage sustainable consumption, the European Commission emphasizes..Saves two-thirds of energy
According to the EU, batteries must last at least 800 so-called charging cycles without losing more than 20 percent of their original capacity.
Products exempt from the new rules are those with foldable screens or those already released on the market before June 20. Otherwise, the change applies to all mobile phones and tablets with a screen of 7-17.4 inches.
- Mobile phones and tablets produced under these rules will save almost 14 terawatt hours of primary energy each year by 2030, explains the European Commission.
- This is a third of the primary energy consumption of these products today. The new rules will also help optimize the use and recycling of critical raw materials.
