New research from Trojan Electronics has revealed that high costs are preventing over half of consumers from repairing broken electronic devices, hindering progress towards a more sustainable, circular economy.
Image Credit: Trojan Electronics
The research highlights how restrictive practices by manufacturers - such as limiting access to spare parts and authorised repair providers - are making repair options unaffordable and not feasible for consumers.
The problem is particularly evident in smartphones, where high repair costs and limited access to parts often push consumers towards buying new devices instead. More than a quarter (27%) of consumers report that many of their broken electrical items simply cannot be repaired reinforcing the need for systemic change.
Despite these challenges, there is strong consumer demand for repairable electronics. One in six consumers (14%) state they always seek to repair their items due to environmental concerns.
Furthermore, an overwhelming 89% of people believe manufacturers should be required to allow third-party businesses to refurbish and repair electronic products, rather than restricting repairs to their own approved providers.
James Rigg, CEO of Trojan Electronics, commented:
“This research highlights a pressing issue in the electronics industry. Consumers want to repair their devices, but the high costs and lack of accessible repair options are forcing them to discard perfectly usable products, contributing massively to the UK’s growing e-waste crisis. If manufacturers genuinely want to promote sustainability, they must make repair services more affordable and accessible.
“For the circular economy to succeed, every stakeholder must play a role. Consumers are clearly ready for change, but they need the right support from manufacturers, retailers, and policymakers to make repairable and long-lasting electronics the norm rather than the exception.
“This study provides a compelling case for action. Ensuring spare parts are widely available and expanding the repair network could drastically reduce e-waste and extend the lifespan of electronic products, benefiting both consumers and the environment.”
E-waste is the fastest-growing solid waste stream globally due to rapid consumption, shorter product lifecycles, and limited repairability. The results of this study offer valuable insights into how manufacturers and policymakers can create a more sustainable electronics industry.
Consumers are willing to embrace circular economy initiatives, but systemic change is needed to remove the financial and practical barriers currently standing in the way of widespread repair adoption.