The Scheduled Expiration in Check

In the past, when purchasing or owning something, it was implicit to have complete control over the product, but with the advancement of technology, this idea has “evolved,” making it increasingly difficult to use, modify, and repair without the assistance of the product or brand.

An example of this is seen, above all, in electronic devices, from smartphones to vehicles, which come with software restrictions or sealed hardware that make them extremely difficult to repair without specialized intervention. Many applications even stop working on devices due to software obsolescence, even though the device itself works perfectly.

At this point, the question arises: if we can’t repair our devices, do we really own them? Faced with this situation, consumers have begun to take legal action and apply pressure, seeking a solution that protects them, challenging this model that leaves the useful life of products in the hands of large corporations. To illustrate the above idea, we can cite how in 2021, President Biden (USA) signed an executive order to promote competition throughout the economy, which included measures supporting the Right to Repair.

Meanwhile, in Europe, he has also introduced regulations requiring manufacturers to guarantee the availability of spare parts and the possibility of repair for a period after purchase.

What is the impact of planned expiration on sustainability?

While the Right to Repair represents savings, one of the main impacts and motivations of the Right to Repair is environmental responsibility. E-waste is growing at an alarming rate, with millions of tons discarded each year. At the time of disposal, most products are still functional but are discarded because repair is inaccessible or uneconomical. Not to mention the growing consumer demand, which drives people to change devices simply because a new version is available, rather than because of a real need for a replacement.

In their awakening, consumers have realized that having the ability to repair their devices extends their useful life and reduces waste generation.

This is how this interest intersects with the circular economy, where products are designed considering their entire life cycle, driving companies to create goods that are not only advanced but also durable and repairable.

As an example to illustrate the above idea, we can use Fairphone, a Dutch company that designs modular, easy-to-repair phones. Its approach demonstrates that it is possible to manufacture ethically and sustainably, and that it is also a viable business strategy.

These actions have empowered consumers, changing their role in the product lifecycle from being mere passive users to seeking active participation in sustainability and innovation.

The Right to Repair vs. Intellectual Property?

Opponents of the Right to Repair argue that allowing third-party repairs could compromise intellectual property or create safety issues. While these concerns are valid, they can be addressed through appropriate regulations and design standards.

Indeed, it is argued that limiting access to repair can stifle innovation, as many technological breakthroughs have emerged from individuals and small businesses experimenting, improving, or adapting existing technologies. By restricting devices, this creative spirit is also limited.

Furthermore, the repair ecosystem represents an opportunity for innovation. Businesses focused on refurbishing, upgrading, or servicing products can emerge, creating jobs and strengthening local economies.

Education and Empowerment

At its core, the Right to Repair is about empowerment. It teaches technical literacy, ingenuity, and independence. When people can fix what they own, they not only learn how things work, but also how systems can be improved.

Educational institutions and online communities already offer resources to foster this knowledge. iFixit, for example, provides free repair manuals for thousands of devices. These platforms not only support the practical aspect of repair but also cultivate a culture of learning and resilience.

Education is vital, as it’s not just about teaching or learning how to repair; it’s about creating a level of awareness that allows for questioning, exploring, and building new things.