The Recycler Live conference to feature key presentation on “Unlocking the Right to Repair: The NGO Perspective”.
The Recycler Live conference has announced a significant addition to its lineup. The conference will feature a ground breaking presentation titled “Unlocking the Right to Repair: The NGO Perspective,” delivered by Cristina Ganapini, a prominent speaker and representative of the Brussels-based Right to Repair organisation.
The right to repair has emerged as a critical issue impacting the environment, industries, and consumers worldwide. Recognising its significance, the Right to Repair organisation will present the latest developments and advancements in the field, shedding light on the remaining barriers to repair that current legislation fails to address effectively.
During the presentation, Ganapini will emphasise the need for a universal right to repair, granting consumers the freedom to choose their preferred repair provider or to undertake repairs themselves. The availability of parts and instructions for independent repairers and direct access for consumers will be highlighted as essential components to ensure wider and easier access to repair solutions. Furthermore, these repair solutions must be accessible within a reasonable timeframe and at a cost corresponding to the product’s expected lifespan.
One of the key issues Ganapini will address is the prevalence of anti-repair practices that restrict or prevent repairs beyond the networks authorised by manufacturers. Examples of such practices include designs requiring remote authorisation from the original manufacturer before full functionality is restored or where part and product serial numbers must be synchronised using proprietary software. The Right to Repair organisation firmly advocates for the banning of such practices.
Affordability will also be a focal point in the presentation. Ganapini will emphasise the importance of repairing a viable and attractive option for consumers by tackling affordability. With living costs rising, addressing the affordability of repair should be a top priority on the political agenda. Recognition of second-hand and third-party spare parts and limitations on the prices of spare parts will be proposed as essential measures to reduce repair costs. Additionally, Ganapini will advocate for including spare parts’ prices as a criterion in the EU repair index and introducing an EU framework for repair financial incentives.
“Hosting this crucial presentation at The Recycler Live Conference is a source of great pride for us,” said Stefanie Unland, Editor and Publisher of The Recycler. “We believe that Cristina Ganapini’s insights will ignite meaningful discussions and offers a unique opportunity for our conference attendees to gain valuable knowledge and actively contribute to the global dialogue on the vital role the right to repair will have in shaping the future of repair and sustainability.”
The Recycler Live Conference: Barcelona is this coming 15 – 16 June at the NH Barcelona Stadium Hotel and is in partnership with ETIRA, the European trade association, and our headline Partner is Armor SAS.
