Lithuania is preparing to introduce new measures to encourage consumers to repair their broken electrical appliances instead of throwing them away, and the recommendations include longer warranty periods and joining a network that unites European services.
Thousands of tons of electrical appliances, including washing machines, televisions and smartphones, arrive at Lithuanian collection and recycling centers every year. Many of them could be repaired, but consumers choose to buy new ones, sometimes even if the appliance still has a valid warranty.
Asta Pakštaitė-Marcinkienė, head of the Association of Manufacturers and Importers, pointed out that people are consumers and want the latest technology, and various promotions, such as Black Friday, encourage people to want the latest trends. “All of this leads to huge flows of electronic devices and consequently a large amount of electronic waste,” added Pakštaitė-Marcinkienė.
Last year, more than 90,000 tons of equipment entered the Lithuanian market, but 22,000 tons were collected as electrical waste. The law requires manufacturers to collect and recycle 65% of electrical equipment sold, but in reality only a third is currently recycled.
Justice Minister Rita Tamašunienė said that
the new measures would be aimed at making it easier for consumers to repair damaged electrical appliances
and to promote sustainable consumption. It is expected that repaired electrical equipment will have an extended warranty period. For example, a new television usually has a two-year warranty. If it is repaired after a year, the warranty will be extended to three years. Tamašunienė pointed out that this will benefit consumers who choose to repair their equipment. The Lithuanian Consumer Protection Centre supports the initiative, noting that it strengthens consumer rights. However, the most common complaints currently relate to sellers refusing to replace defective appliances, even if they have a valid warranty, rather than repairing them.
Lithuania also plans to join a European online platform where consumers can find the nearest repairers and services. The platform is expected to help both consumers and small businesses, especially in smaller towns.
The government has approved the new rules, and they will now be discussed in parliament. The rules on warranty extensions could come into force within six months, while the repair information platform is expected to be in place by mid-2027.
Read the full article in English here: https://www.lrt.lt/en/news-in-english/19/2763200/repair-not-throw-away-lithuania-considers-measures-to-reduce-electronic-waste
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