Repair or replace? How to fight constant demands for ‘new stuff’

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Series Details 05.10.16
Publication Date 05/10/2016
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Is the throwaway era about to end?

The Swedish government’s plan to reduce the rate of VAT levied on repair work from 25% to 12% is the latest sign that Europeans are beginning to question the 'take, make and throw away' culture of consumerism that lies at the heart of industrialised economies.

In France, planned obsolescence is now punishable by two years’ imprisonment with a fine of up to €300,000. Spain recently became the first country to set a target designed to increase reuse. Meanwhile Germany’s environment agency, the UBA, has commissioned research on the lifetime of electrical goods in order to develop strategies against obsolescence.

Source Link Link to Main Source https://theconversation.com/repair-or-replace-how-to-fight-constant-demands-for-new-stuff-66299
Related Links
EP: EPRS: Briefing, May 2016: Planned obsolescence: Exploring the issue http://www.europeansources.info/record/planned-obsolescence-exploring-the-issue/
ESO: Background information: Circular economy package: Four legislative proposals on waste http://www.europeansources.info/record/circular-economy-package-four-legislative-proposals-on-waste-3/

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