Planned obsolescence or planned obsolescence is the programming by the manufacturers of a product to end its useful life.

This time is calculated by the manufacturer in the product design process and mainly, has economic purposes knowing that the product will have to be renewed after a while with the consequent increase in profits.

After a period of time “x”, the product will stop working not because it is damaged, but because It has been designed so that after that time, the device fails.

For planned obsolescence to work and the manufacturer to achieve its goals, the customer has had to be satisfied with the “quality-price” relationship to renew their product by the more modern equivalent, and of course, by the same manufacturer.

This constant renewal of products, It has a great impact on society and the environment.

How can we stop planned obsolescence?

There is a seal that allows us to identify those products that do not have it and that fight against it.

The ISSOP seal distinguishes those organizations and people that have decisively committed to excellence in the field of sustainability, respect for the environment and people, with the aim of promoting a change towards a new paradigm, based on an economic model where the economy of the common good is the reference.

How can manufacturers get this seal?

• Prioritizing the purchase of products and contracting services that are environmentally friendly, manufactured without planned obsolescence, and if you are a manufacturer of a product, manufacture it without planned obsolescence. Preferably using local products and “Fair Trade”.
• Contributing to energy improvement and the reduction of emissions, with the aim of reducing carbon and corporate ecological footprints.
• Carrying out correct waste management.
• Promoting the culture of socially and environmentally responsible consumption.
• Betting on environmental responsibility and the preservation of the local environment.
• Facilitating access to environmental and social integration training.
• Avoiding the use of misleading or environmentally and socially irresponsible advertising.
• Promoting equality and social integration.
• Facilitating work, family and personal conciliation.
• Promoting and disseminating the commitments adopted towards a more sustainable and responsible management model. Include clauses in your contracts with third parties that prevent corruption.

Europe currently aims to end planned obsolescence by requiring manufacturers to make any of their products repairable, as well as to extend warranty periods.

And you, are you aware of planned obsolescence?