EU Pulling the plug on e-waste

The European Commission is putting forward legislation to establish a common charging solution for electronic devices, with the revision of the Radio Equipment Directive.

With this new proposal to revise the Radio Equipment Directive, the European Commission is declaring a uniform and harmonized charging port for devices. USB type C is to be that common port. The Commission also proposes harmonized fast charging technology to ensure that charging speed is the same when using any compatible charger. Further, the Commission proposes to unbundle the sale of chargers from the sale of devices. Consumers will purchase new electronic devices without a new charger.

This new proposal will need adoption by the European Parliament and council. A transition period of 24 months from the date of adoption is proposed.

REF:

https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_21_4613

https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/QANDA_21_4614

https://ec.europa.eu/docsroom/documents/46754