A so-called right to repair is intended to make European consumer law more sustainable. Such a right must simultaneously take into account consumer behavior, economic efficiency and the environment. In view of these requirements, the authors of the policy brief 'Right to repair' first outline background factors that currently stand in the way of sustainable consumption and production, present for the first time the results of a population-representative survey of consumers on the topic of 'repairing digitally networked devices', and provide an overview of existing inter- and supranational regulations and initiatives to promote sustainable product use. Based on an in-depth analysis of current regulatory efforts of the European Commission, the authors then discuss how eco-design requirements for sustainable products can be interlinked with consumer law to strengthen legal claims for reparability. Finally, five recommendations for action are made.
Link to publication