Why throw away when you can repair?
Why throw away when you can repair?
There is a significant upswing in repairing goods rather than disposing of them. Can this trend be applied to your business, are there any legal responsibilities and what could be the benefits to your organisation?
Mending on the increase
Whilst there has always been a market for restoring antiques and most high streets have a place that repairs expensive items such as mobile phones, a new wave of fixers are setting their sights on salvaging cheaper, everyday items. In particular emphasis is on preventing electronic waste from entering landfill.
Relevant legislation
The government has introduced new ecodesign and labelling requirements for specified electrical products sold in Great Britain. The Ecodesign for Energy-Related Products and Energy Information Regulations 2021 sometimes referred to as the “Right to Repair Regulations”, came into force in July 2021. Their purpose is to allow for easier repairs to household electricals and to increase product lifespans. Under the regulations, manufacturers are obliged to produce spare parts for a minimum period of seven years and enable repairs to be made using “commonly available tools”.
Application to business
Whilst existing legislation only applies to household goods, this may well extend to other items, e.g. computer equipment, photocopiers and vending machines, in the near future. If successful it could eventually encompass all equipment including large plant and heavy machinery.
Blockers to repair
One of the major hurdles is the fact that much modern technology isn’t designed to be fixed, e.g. Apple smartphones are constructed in such a way that it’s not even possible to replace the battery.
Fix or replace?
So is it worth you trying to fix broken equipment rather than replace it? There are a number of things to consider if you are going to take this route including cost and availability of spare parts, time to repair, skill set of repairer and overall efficiency of repaired equipment.
The case for repairing
Equipment can break down due to poor maintenance, extensive use, and wear and tear. Look for a reputable technician to repair the damaged component, often a circuit board or motor. The cost of repairing motors can be 50% less than the cost of a total replacement. You’ll have the added benefit of not having to pay disposal costs of large plant and machinery.
Other gains your business could see if you implement a robust repair programme include:
processes won’t need changing
existing equipment is compatible with IT solutions so won’t need upgraded software
repairs may be quicker and cheaper than replacements
Tip. Work with your suppliers to ensure critical spare parts are available so you can effect repairs.
Tip. If you operate a formal environmental management system, evidence of reducing waste by repairing will score strongly on an audit.
Whilst there is currently no legal requirement to repair broken equipment, by creating a repair rather than replace policy you can demonstrate adherence to your environmetal management system. Lengthening equipment life could save replacement and disposal costs and reduce downtime