The European Union’s Right to Repair Directive, finalized in July 2024 and set to become law in all EU countries by July 2026, is a game-changer for consumers around the world. While the U.S. has been moving in a direction less friendly to the environment and consumers, the EU has been updating its rules to make products easier to repair, which can have a positive impact on American consumers, even if they never set foot in Europe.
According to the UN’s Global E-waste Monitor 2024, the world generated a record 62 million tonnes of electronic waste in 2022, with less than a quarter of it properly collected and recycled. This leaves approximately $62 billion in recoverable natural resources unaccounted for. Americans are significant contributors to this problem, disposing of approximately 416,000 cell phones daily and generating nearly 8 million tons of e-waste annually.
The European Commission estimates that premature disposal of consumer electronics results in 261 million tons of CO2-equivalent emissions annually and costs EU consumers about €12 billion annually in unnecessary replacements. In the U.S., easy device repair could save an average family $330 every year.
The Right to Repair Directive, along with the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation introduced in 2025, requires manufacturers to provide repair services beyond the warranty period, make spare parts available, publish repair information, support software longevity, and display repairability scores on products. Manufacturers are also prohibited from using practices that impede repair, such as parts pairing.
Already, these regulations have produced tangible results. Companies like Apple and Samsung have expanded their self-repair programs in European countries, making diagnostic tools and genuine parts more accessible to consumers. Apple, for example, redesigned its battery attachment system to comply with European regulations, benefiting American consumers who purchase the same devices.
The EU’s influence as a global regulatory trendsetter means that American consumers often benefit from European regulations even without domestic equivalents. Improved product design, expanded parts availability, lower repair costs through competition, and better battery longevity are some of the practical impacts for American consumers.
American repair advocates are also making progress in the U.S. As of January 2026, more than one-quarter of Americans live in states with enforceable Right to Repair laws, with that number expected to exceed 35% by fall 2026. Congressional bills like the Fair Repair Act aim to reduce household electronics spending and generate national savings.
Overall, the EU’s Right to Repair Directive is not only beneficial for European consumers but also for consumers around the world, including Americans. The push for repairability and sustainability in product design is a step in the right direction towards reducing e-waste and promoting a more sustainable future. The tide is turning against manufacturers who have long attempted to thwart repair options for consumers. With the passing of right to repair legislation in various states, it is clear that the status quo is no longer acceptable. However, even if your state has not yet implemented repair laws, there are still plenty of options available for fixing your broken electronics without having to resort to expensive replacements.
One of the leading forces in the repair movement is iFixit, a San Luis Obispo-based company that provides free step-by-step repair guides for thousands of products. They also sell quality replacement parts and precision toolkits, making it easier for consumers to fix their devices themselves. iFixit has partnered with repair providers across the country, making it easier to find local repair options. Additionally, their Pro program supports independent repair shops by providing discounted tools and parts.
Independent repair shops are another great option for quick and affordable repairs. Networks like iFixandRepair have over 400 locations across the United States, offering services for smartphones, tablets, and laptops. These local businesses often provide faster turnaround times and competitive pricing compared to manufacturer-authorized repair centers.
For those looking for a more community-focused repair experience, Repair Cafés offer free repair events where volunteer experts help fix a variety of items, from electronics to clothing to small appliances. These events help keep items out of landfills while also transferring repair knowledge to communities. Repair Cafés have become increasingly popular across the United States, with active programs in various states.
Manufacturers themselves are also starting to recognize the importance of repair options. Apple’s Self Service Repair program now covers 65 products, providing parts, tools, and documentation directly to consumers. Samsung also offers a Self-Repair program for Galaxy devices, with genuine parts available through their website. While these programs may have limitations and costs, they represent a step towards greater repair accessibility.
Beyond just convenience, the EU’s Right to Repair legislation is a crucial step towards building a circular economy that reduces e-waste. With electronic waste projected to reach alarming levels by 2030, extending product lifespans through repair is essential for environmental sustainability.
Whether you’re replacing a cracked phone screen or giving new life to an old appliance, the resources for repair are increasingly available. Thanks to regulations enacted in other parts of the world, consumers now have more options than ever to fix their electronics and reduce their environmental impact.
