Repair instead of throwing away: According to the EU Commission, consumers should be informed about the costs of spare parts when buying products and also whether a device can be repaired. However, the proposal for a right to repair is now delayed.
The EU Commission intends to present a legislative proposal in the coming months that would make it easier to repair products. Initiatives against microplastic pollution and more sustainable packaging are also expected to be unveiled over the same period, as reflected in the agency’s 2023 work programme.
Originally it was planned to present a draft of the right to repairs at the end of November. The EU Commission always emphasizes that announcements for new projects are always provisional. They could be postponed for different reasons.
Almost two years ago, the EU Parliament called for a right to repairs. This is intended to inform consumers about the cost of spare parts when making a purchase and also whether a device can be repaired. In addition, independent workshops should have better access to product and repair information, spare parts should be standardized and be available over a reasonable period of time.
In addition, the EU Commission announced a revision of the rules for the approval of chemicals in its work program for the end of 2023. This is intended to promote sustainable chemicals, simplify the regulatory process and better protect people and the environment. One of the aims of the revision of this so-called Reach regulation is to ensure that substances of concern are quickly identified and, if necessary, restricted.
The Austrian Green MEP Thomas Waitz criticized that the proposal would come too late to get through the legislative process before the next European elections. The revision was announced for the last quarter of 2023 – the next elections are due in May 2024. Federal Environment Minister Steffi Lemke also recently urged that the project be implemented quickly. Christian Democrats fear negative effects for companies if the new rules become too strict.
Revisions to the European electricity market and the so-called slot rules for airlines are also announced. These should come in the third quarter of 2023. A reform of the European electricity market is called for above all, since its design is held partly responsible for the comparatively high energy prices. It is planned that electricity and gas prices should be decoupled.
The slot rules have been criticized for polluting the environment as they resulted in empty flights. In order for airlines to retain take-off and landing rights at popular airports, current law requires them to make some use of them. This is to ensure fair competition.
