Right to Repair Movement : Solution to the problem of E-waste generation
The Right to Repair of Electronic Products is a reference to a requirement of government legislation. It aims to provide consumers with the ability to repair and convert their own electronic equipment.
The beginning of this movement is considered to be from the 1950s. The concept originated from the automotive industry in the United States.
Requirement:
- Protecting the environment in the long run by reducing e-waste.
- E-waste is any electrical or electronic device that becomes in use or out of use. It is especially dangerous because of toxic chemicals. These chemicals are naturally precipitated from the metals inside the e-waste when it is buried in a pit.
- Reducing the culture of ‘planned obsolescence’. Planned obsolescence means that equipment is specifically designed to be in operation for a limited period of time.
- Excessive pressure on the environment and waste of natural resources.
- Encouraging business for small repair shops.
Challenges:
- Making the intellectual property of tech companies available to third party repair services can lead to exploitation. Also, the safety and efficiency of their equipment may be affected.
- This may make the device more vulnerable to cyber hacking and associated privacy concerns.
Initiatives taken by India for E-Waste:
- E-waste awareness program has been started under Digital India. In addition, the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016 have been notified.
- E-Waste Clinic enables segregation, processing and disposal of waste.
Source – The Hindu
