New rules to increase demand for repair!

New EU rules have been introduced that require manufacturers of electrical goods such as fridges and televisions to make their products repairable for at least 10 years after first coming to market.

The new rules are part of the EU’s efforts to cut the environmental footprint of manufactured goods and make them more repairable. These rules introduced on March 1 mean that all new washing machines, hairdryers, refrigerators and displays – including televisions – sold in EU countries must be repairable and spare part used in repair will be made available for up to 10 years.

Steps in Ireland

In a further step to increase repair and reuse in Ireland, FIT, a non-profit training organization, WEEE Ireland, and the White Goods Association have come together to create a curriculum and formal career pathway for field service technicians. This new training course aims to attract new entrants and create a steady supply of trained technicians to address a growing want for maintenance, repair and reuse of white goods as opposed to disposal.

Training

The project will be run by FIT with the support of Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) in a new training centre in Dunshaughlin, Co Meath. Participants will complete a 36-week training programme which incorporates an extensive work placement. White Goods Association members have agreed to support the 12-week work experience component of the course.

This circular economy skills initiative opens up a new and exciting career for women and men who have an interest in prolonging the life-cycle of our white goods in the interest of sustainability, reduced waste and enhance environmental wellbeing. 

The aim of prolonging the life-cycle of our white goods used daily in home across Ireland is very worthwhile and one people should think about for considering the purchase of a new washing machine, tumble dryer machine or dishwasher. The course aims to increase the number of service technicians available in the repair market which offers more choice for people interested.

This initiative is supported by a grant from the CIRCULÉIRE Innovation fund. CIRCULÉIRE is Ireland’s first industry-led innovation network dedicated to accelerating the circular economy.

To learn more and register an interest in the training course click here

About Recycle IT

Recycle IT is an award-winning social enterprise providing recycling collection and drop off services for all types of waste electrical, electronic equipment (WEEE) and pure metal items.

During 2020 Recycle IT operated a curtailed drop off and collection services to homes, schools, charities and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas collecting a range of WEEE which includes thousands of batteries, computers, cables, monitors, kettles.  microwaves and screens. We are open again in 2021 working within the COVID 19 guidelines.

Recycle IT services are provided in partnership with WEEE Ireland. Recycle IT is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development, Dormant Accounts Fund, Pobal, South Dublin County Council and authorized by the National Waste Collection Permit Office and the local authorities across Leinster.

For further details about our free and cost-effective services call us on 01 4578321, email info@recycleit.ie or visit the Recycle IT website at www.recycleit.ie