Ready to Make Smarter Choices with EU's New Smartphone and Tablet Energy Labels!
Upcoming Mandate for Energy Rating Labels on Smartphones and Tablets within the European Union - Mandatory Energy Rating for Smartphones and Tablets Imminent within EU Markets
❗
Starting from June 20, 2025, smartphones and tablets sold in the EU will come with a brand-new energy label. This label serves a dual purpose – assisting consumers in evaluating a device's durability and repairability, while also providing information on energy efficiency and battery life, resistance to dust and moisture, and robustness against drops.
Brussels authorities claim that this energy label will empower EU consumers to make more educated, sustainable purchasing decisions, effectively fostering eco-friendly consumption habits. Comparing devices has never been easier!
Besides the energy label, manufacturers are now subject to new eco-design requirements. These rules mandate increased device resistance, longer-lasting batteries, and extended software updates. Furthermore, quick provision of essential spare parts is also expected. The goal? To conserve electricity and CO2 emissions.
What's a Smartphone?
A portable, handheld device primarily used for voice calls, text messaging, and browsing the internet.
Where's the EU?
The European Union, a political and economic union of 27 European countries.
What's mandatory labeling?
A regulatory requirement for packaging and labeling certain products before they hit the market.
What's an Energy Label?
A label displaying information about a product's energy efficiency, typically used for appliances and electronics.
Why Should We Care?
The new regulations strive to promote sustainable consumption, reduce electronic waste, and boost transparency surrounding device durability and environmental impact. By being mindful of these labels, you contribute to a greener future!
References:
- energylabel.eu - Energy efficiency labeling catalyst for more sustainable decisions
- ec.europa.eu - Ecodesign for energy efficiency and the environment
- europa.eu - Gross Energy Consumption per unit of Gross Value Added (Energy intensity)
- dcr.eea.europa.eu - EU Waste Statistics 2017 - Electrical and Electronic Waste
- europa.eu - Consultation on repairability and availability of spare parts of electronic devices in Europe
- In the context of the EU's new smartphone and tablet energy labels, it is essential for employers to update their employment policy to include guidelines for sustainability and eco-friendly practices in the workplace, promoting the responsible use of technology.
- As part of community policymaking, local authorities may consider implementing initiatives that encourage the recycling of old gadgets and smartphones, in line with the EU's efforts to reduce electronic waste and promote energy-efficient technology.
