As of Saturday 28th December, all small and medium-sized portable electronic devices sold in the European Union must feature USB-C charging ports, marking a significant step toward reducing electronic waste.
The new regulation applies to smartphones, tablets, cameras, headphones, video game consoles, and other similar devices, ensuring that consumers no longer need different chargers for each product. This long-anticipated change is part of a broader initiative to reduce the environmental impact of discarded chargers, which generate significant electronic waste annually.
A push for sustainability and convenience
The European Parliament and member states approved the rules in 2022, aiming to simplify consumer experiences and reduce waste. By standardising USB-C ports as the universal charging solution, EU households are expected to save an estimated €250 million annually by avoiding unnecessary charger purchases.
In addition to requiring USB-C ports, the regulation allows consumers to opt out of receiving a charger with every new device they buy, further reducing waste and costs.
Anna Cavazzini, chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection, hailed the move as “a decisive step toward consumer convenience and environmental responsibility”, saying that the rules directly address waste issues while benefiting consumers financially.
Expanded requirements in 2026
The regulation is set to expand further: as of 28th April 2026, laptop manufacturers will also need to comply with the USB-C standard. This staggered implementation ensures manufacturers have time to adapt their production lines and supply chains.
Oversight and adaptation
The European Parliament has committed to monitoring how manufacturers adhere to the new rules, ensuring a smooth transition for consumers and industries alike. Despite initial resistance from some manufacturers, the move has been widely recognised as a milestone in environmental policy and consumer rights.
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