In a move that promises to revolutionize the way we charge our devices, the European Parliament has approved a new directive requiring all mobile phones, tablets, and cameras sold in the EU to be equipped with a USB Type-C charging port by the end of 2024. This game-changing development marks a significant step towards reducing electronic waste (e-waste) and empowering consumers to make more sustainable choices.
The new law aims to simplify the lives of consumers by introducing a single charging solution for all portable devices, eliminating the need for multiple chargers and cables. With USB Type-C becoming the new standard for portable devices, users will be able to charge their devices quickly and efficiently, using any compatible charger.
As part of this effort, the European Commission will also harmonize interoperability requirements for wireless charging by the end of 2024, ensuring that consumers can enjoy seamless charging experiences without being locked into a single manufacturer. This move is expected to encourage technological innovation and promote the development of innovative charging solutions in the future.
The new directive will also provide better information and choice for consumers, with dedicated labels informing them about the charging characteristics of new devices. This will enable users to make informed decisions about whether to purchase a new charging device or reuse an existing one.
The benefits of this new directive are clear: it will lead to more re-use of chargers, saving consumers up to €250 million annually on unnecessary charger purchases. Moreover, it will help reduce e-waste, which accounts for approximately 11,000 tonnes of waste annually in the EU.
As Alex Agius Saliba, Parliament's rapporteur, highlighted, "The common charger will finally become a reality in Europe. We have waited more than ten years for these rules, but we can finally leave the current plethora of chargers in the past."
With this directive set to come into force by the end of 2024, it is clear that the future of mobile marketing lies in simplicity, sustainability, and innovation.
Next Steps
The Council will formally approve the Directive before it is published in the EU Official Journal. The new rules will enter into force 20 days after publication, with Member States having 12 months to transpose the rules and 12 months after the transposition period ends to apply them.
Background
This development marks a significant milestone in Parliament's efforts to introduce a common charger. Despite previous attempts to work with industry to reduce the number of mobile chargers, voluntary measures failed to produce concrete results for EU consumers. The legislative proposal was finally tabled by the Commission on 23 September 2021.
Contact
Yasmina YAKIMOVA, Press Officer