[et_pb_section fb_built=\u201d1\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.18.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d0px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.18.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.18.0\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_image src=\u201dhttps:\/\/longtimelabel.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Indice-de-Durabilite_EN.jpg\u201d alt=\u201dGreenwashing: Definition, Impacts and Solutions by LONGTIME\u201d title_text=\u201dDurability Index (3)\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_margin=\u201d|||14px||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23.1\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n
Planned obsolescence is a major challenge for the sustainable and efficient management of resources, anda major concern for the environment. To help improve this management and continue to promote the extension of product lifetimes, France and Europe are rolling out a new regulatory measure \u2013 the Durability Index. <\/span><\/p>\n Initially scheduled for 2024, the implementation of the French Sustainability Index has had to be reviewed following the recommendations of the European Commission, and<\/span>contrary to what was planned, smartphones and tablets will no longer be included in the French Sustainability Index.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_3_font=\u201d|700|||||||\u201d header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 header_4_text_color=\u201d#474747\u2033 header_5_text_color=\u201d#000000\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Stemming from the AGEC law and initiated in 2021, the reparability index was a first step towards providing consumers with transparent data on the possibility of repairing the appliances they wish to purchase, in the event of breakdown. <\/span><\/p>\n LONGTIME\u00ae played a major role in the creation of the French Repairability Index. Its criteria include the availability of technical documentation, ease of disassembly, availability of spare parts, the cost of spare parts in relation to the price of a new product and specific measures according to product category. Unfortunately, the lack of weighting that we identified at the time contributed to a sometimes misleading index, but adjustments have been made. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n The durability index is an evolution of the reparability index, designed to incorporate measures of robustness and reliability. <\/span><\/p>\n Initially, smartphones, televisions and washing machines were intended to be covered by this index. However, the European Commission has indicated that smartphones and tablets will be excluded from this index, due to the future European energy label, which will include a reparability index coupled with information on reliability (a European sustainability index).<\/span><\/p>\n This new French durability index can now be applied to televisions and washing machines. It will provide consumers with an assessment of the reliability and repairability of these two products, thanks to a rating from 1 to 10 accompanied by a colour code. <\/span><\/p>\n The short lifespan of electrical and electronic products is a major source of waste and pollution. Manufacturing a product necessarily has an impact on the environment at every stage of its life cycle.<\/span><\/p>\n For the same reasons, in 2017, the Ethikis ad Civis citizens\u2019 cooperative decided to commit to promoting sustainable products and created the<\/span> LONGTIME\u00ae Label<\/span><\/a>. <\/span> <\/p>\n We regularly talk about pollution from cars, planes and meat, but we all too often overlook the impact of our consumption and use of manufactured goods.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/span>Are you in any doubt? To give you an idea, to amortise the impact of manufacturing a mobile phone, we would have to use it for 232 years!<\/span><\/p>\n Extending the life of products is a highly effective eco-design strategy. Choosing reliable goods and extending their lifespan by choosing to have them repaired is like giving up flying or reducing your meat purchases.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n The reparability index was introduced to give consumers a clear idea of how easy it is to repair a product if it breaks down. This is a measure designed to encourage the repair rather than the replacement of appliances. Repairability is not the same as durability. <\/span>Durability is reliability + repairability. Above all, consumers want reliable goods. A hoover, a blender or an electric oven may be repairable, but if they break down regularly, consumers will stop repairing them and buya new item.<\/span><\/p>\n The durability index therefore extends the reparability index by including robustness in the assessment. The aim is not only to check how easy it is to repair, but also the longevity and resistance of the goods to everyday wear and tear. In this way, you can obtain a more complete and nuanced assessment of the durability of the products you are considering buying.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d5px||5px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_2_font_size=\u201d27px\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n Planned obsolescence<\/span><\/a> is a concept whereby manufacturers deliberately design products so that they cease to function or become obsolete after a certain period, thereby encouraging consumers to buy new ones. This practice has considerable environmental consequences, contributing in particular to the depletion of resources and the accumulation of technological waste, which is particularly difficult to recycle. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d25px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d4px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_3_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 header_4_text_color=\u201d#6B6B6B\u201d header_5_text_color=\u201d#8F8F8F\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n As you will have gathered, this index combines the measurements of the old French government reparability index with new reliability-oriented evaluation indicators. The list of criteria will vary according to category, so for the time being, only the criteria for the TV sustainability index are known. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n Here are the 3 criteria that will be added to those of the reparability index to form the basis of the durability index.<\/span><\/p>\n Depending on the type of equipment, this criterion may refer to one or more durability tests (wear tests) carried out on the item or its main components. <\/span> It is commonly said that 50% of breakdowns can be avoided by observing the conditions of use and maintenance of the articles.<\/span><\/p>\n This third criterion focuses on the warranty conditions offered by the manufacturer and its quality approach. <\/span><\/p>\n These indicators are linked to equipment improvements, but only concern certain categories of item. These improvements will be assessed from two angles: hardware improvements and\/or software improvements.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d custom_padding=\u201d7px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_font=\u201d|800|||||||\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n The index score is the result of a multi-criteria evaluation. A calculation matrix in the form of an excel grid constructed by the government and in which the LONGTIME\u00ae label participated will be downloadable for each commodity covered by the index. <\/span><\/p>\n The exact method of calculation could vary, but it could involve weighting the different indicators according to their perceived importance in the overall durability of the product. <\/span><\/p>\n Each criterion is given a score, and aggregating them gives an overall score on a scale of 1 to 10, rounded to the nearest decimal place. A higher score will therefore normally indicate better durability.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_toggle title=\u201dWho checks the calculation of the reliability score?\u201d open_toggle_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 icon_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 toggle_icon=\u201d;||divi||400\u2033 content_last_edited=\u201doff|desktop\u201d _builder_version=\u201d4.24.2\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d||1px|||\u201d custom_padding=\u201d9px||8px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n The responsibility for calculation lies with the builders themselves, in accordance with the guidelines laid down by the competent authorities. <\/span><\/p>\n In terms of allocation, there is no difference for the time being, since the index will be self-monitored. It is the manufacturer itself that calculates and communicates its score to distributors or customers. The DGCCRF (Direction g\u00e9n\u00e9rale de la concurrence, de la consommation et de la r\u00e9pression des fraudes \u2013 Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control) may be called in or may carry out random checks on the calculation of<\/span><\/p>\n However, to ensure accuracy and transparency, it is desirable that verification be carried out by independent, accredited and trained third-party organisations or government agencies. An audit would ensure that manufacturers follow the guidelines accurately and honestly, reducing the risk of inflated or manipulated scores.<\/span><\/p>\n Verification could also include random testing of goods by third-party organisations to validate manufacturers\u2019 claims about reliability and repairability.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=\u201dWhat are the penalties associated with the durability index?\u201d open_toggle_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 icon_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 toggle_icon=\u201d;||divi||400\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 custom_margin=\u201d||2px|||\u201d custom_padding=\u201d9px||8px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n At this stage, there is no visibility in the event of a breach of the French government index. However, there is a good chance that the environmental display sanctions will be transposed to the index.<\/span><\/p>\n To date, any failure to comply with the index is punishable byan administrative fine of up to \u20ac3,000 for an individual and \u20ac15,000 for a legal entity (see<\/span> Article 3 of the Climate and Resilience Act of August 2021<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\n These penalties are minimal compared to the competitive advantage that can be gained by displaying an index that is inflated in relation to reality.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=\u201dWhich products will be covered by the durability index?\u201d open_toggle_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 icon_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 toggle_icon=\u201d;||divi||400\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 min_height=\u201d31.6px\u201d custom_margin=\u201d||1px|||\u201d custom_padding=\u201d9px||8px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n sHere is the list of items for which the durability index is mandatory: <\/span><\/p>\n The index is being applied to a small range of electrical and technological products for the time being, but the list of items covered should match the list of items covered by the reparability index.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][et_pb_toggle title=\u201dWhere can I find the grids used to calculate the durability index?\u201d open_toggle_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 icon_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 toggle_icon=\u201d;||divi||400\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d title_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 title_level=\u201dh3\u2033 min_height=\u201d31.6px\u201d custom_padding=\u201d9px||8px|||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n The calculation grids will be accessible at least on the website<\/span>https:\/\/www.ecologie.gouv.fr\/<\/span><\/a>. As with the reparability index grids, producers will be able to download a zip containing the matrices to be completed.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_toggle][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_column type=\u201d4_4\u2033 _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u201d4.23\u2033 _module_preset=\u201ddefault\u201d header_2_text_color=\u201d#009541\u2033 header_3_text_color=\u201d#5CC4E7\u2033 custom_padding=\u201d0px|||||\u201d global_colors_info=\u201d{}\u201d]<\/p>\n The sustainability index is part of a circular economy approach aimed at promoting the extension of the life of goods and reducing premature waste in order to improve the management and use of resources.<\/span><\/p>\n Consumers, how to read and interpret the sustainability index?<\/b><\/p>\n <\/span>For consumers, this new index is a comparison tool to help them make informed choices when buying electronics and household appliances. Here\u2019s how to read and interpret the index:<\/span><\/p>\n We recommend that you keep a close eye on the ratings and find out about the durability of the products you want to buy. The LONGTIME\u00ae certification experts draw up buying guides<\/a> that will turn you into an expert in the blink of an eye!<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n <\/span><\/p>\n For manufacturers, the durability index implies a revision of the calculations of the current scores linked to the reparability index.<\/span><\/p>\n As reliability is taken into account in the calculation matrices, scores may fall for products that are easy to repair but not very reliable.From the reparability index to the durability index<\/b><\/h2>\n
What is the durability index?<\/b><\/h3>\n
The aim of this measure is to enable buyers to make more informed choices by assessing the durability of the televisions and washing machines they are considering.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\nWhy was a sustainability index created?<\/b><\/h3>\n
What are the differences between the reparability index and the durability index?<\/b><\/h3>\n
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<\/span>This is an important concept to grasp.<\/span><\/p>\nUnderstanding programmed obsolescence<\/b><\/h2>\n
What are the durability index criteria?<\/b><\/h2>\n
The 3 new criteria of the French Sustainability Index<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Criterion 1: Resistance to stress and\/or wear<\/b><\/h4>\n
<\/span>It may also refer to sub-criteria relating to resistance to external stresses (corrosion).<\/span><\/p>\nCriterion 2: Maintenance and upkeep<\/b><\/h4>\n
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Criterion 3: Sustainability guarantee and quality approach<\/b><\/h4>\n
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Sector criteria Material or functional improvements<\/b><\/h4>\n
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How is the durability index score calculated?<\/h2>\n
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Sustainabilityindex: what are the benefits for consumers?<\/b><\/h2>\n
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Manufacturers, how can you prepare for the sustainability index?<\/b><\/h3>\n
<\/span>Conversely, for items that are more reliable but less easy to repair, the scores could be revised upwards.<\/span><\/p>\n