By the end of 2024, all mobile phones, tablets and cameras sold in the EU should have a USB Type-C charging port, the European Parliament has decided. Laptops are expected to be subject to the new rules from spring 2026.
The new law, which was adopted in plenary session on Tuesday, with 602 votes in favor, 13 against and 8 abstentions, is part of the European Union’s efforts to reduce e-waste.
ONE EU CHARGER FOR EVERYTHING
Regardless of the manufacturer, all mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, portable video game consoles, portable speakers, e-readers, keyboards, mice, portable navigation systems, earphones, and laptops that can be recharged with a wired cable, regardless From the manufacturer, it should be equipped with a USB Type C port.
The labels will inform consumers of the charging characteristics of new devices, making it easier for them to verify that existing chargers are compatible.
Thanks to the new regulations, consumers can save up to 250 million euros annually on unnecessary shipper purchases. Used and unused chargers account for around 11,000 tons of so-called e-waste annually in the European Union.
– Shared charger will finally become a reality in Europe. We have been waiting for these rules for over ten years. (…]This forward-looking law allows for the development of innovative shipping solutions and will benefit everyone – from frustrated consumers to our fragile environment, said project rapporteur Alex Agius Saliba (S&D).
The Council will have to formally approve the Directive before it is published in the Official Journal of the European Union. It will take effect 20 days after its publication. Member states will have 12 months to implement the rules and 12 months after the adaptation period to apply them expires.
Main image source: stock struggle
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