Streamlining Smartphone Purchasing: EU's New Energy Label for Sustainability
Mandatory Energy Ratings for Smartphones and Tablets in the EU - Mandatory Energy Labeling for Smartphones and Tablets Coming Soon under EU Regulation
Say goodbye to guessing games when it comes to backing the best green tech. As of June 2025, EU markets will see a sea change with the mandated energy label for smartphones and tablets. The fresh guidelines aim to arm consumers with vital data on energy efficiency, durability, and eco-friendly elements.
What's in Store
Dive into the comprehensive label that rates smartphones from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), and tablets with screen sizes between 7 and 17.4 inches. The label reflects:
- Efficiency: Energy usage during standby and active periods
- Lifespan: Battery lifespan and robustness against drops
- Robustness: Device resistance against dust, moisture, and accidental drops
Empowering Consumers, Enhancing Security
The label intends to guide EU consumers to more informed and sustainable shopping decisions. With streamlined product comparisons, procurement becomes more straightforward. To ensure transparency, manufacturers must register their products in the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL), managed by the European Commission.
Sustainable Eco-Design and More
In tandem with the new labeling regulations, manufacturers will face updated eco-design requirements:
- Durability: Reduced electronic waste by promoting prolonged product lifespans through improved drop resistance and increased dust and water protection.
- Repairability: Access to spare parts and repair services becomes easier, with an emphasis on hardware repairs and software updates to extend device service life.
- Battery Performance: Greater insight into battery endurance per charge cycle, helping consumers understand battery performance sustainability and replacement requirements.
The eco-friendly initiative aims to lower CO2 emissions substantially, making mobile devices more sustainable and aligning with EU's climate objectives. By enhancing accessibility to eco-friendly tech options, the new label underscores the EU's commitment to environmental conservation and driving sustainable consumption. Happy shopping!
[1] European Commission. (2022). Mandatory energy labels for smartphones and tablets. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/16044-Energy-label-for-smartphones-and-tablets
[2] European Climate Foundation. (2021). Digital footprints: Reducing the environmental impact of digital technology in the European Union. Retrieved from https://www.europeanclimate.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Digital-footprints-Transitioning-towards-a-sustainable-digital-future.pdf
[3] International Compliance Publishing. (n.d.). Ingress protection (IP) codes and ratings for electrical equipment. Retrieved from https://www.compliance-testo.co.uk/opf/content/inge.pdf
[4] The Impact Lab. (2021). How can Europe reduce the environmental footprint of its digital economy? Retrieved from https://theimpactlab.io/how-can-europe-reduce-the-environmental-footprint-of-its-digital-economy/
[5] GSMA. (2020). Delivering the circular economy for mobile devices: Perspectives on closed-loop supply chains and collection systems. Retrieved from https://www.gsma.com/mobilefordevelopment/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Circular-Economy_GSMA.pdf
