kierrätysoikeutta

Kierrätystoikeutta is a Finnish term that translates to "right to repair" or "right to recycle" in English, though it more specifically refers to the legal and practical right of consumers and independent repair businesses to access the necessary parts, tools, information, and software to repair products. The concept aims to combat planned obsolescence and promote a more circular economy by making repair a viable and accessible alternative to purchasing new devices.

The core idea behind kierrätystoikeutta is that consumers should not be forced to replace products prematurely due to a lack of repair options. This includes having access to original spare parts, diagnostic tools, repair manuals, and software updates that are often withheld by manufacturers. Such restrictions can lead to products being discarded even when a simple repair could extend their lifespan significantly.

Advocates for kierrätystoikeutta argue that it benefits both consumers and the environment. Consumers save money by repairing rather than replacing items, and a more robust repair market can create local jobs. Environmentally, extending product lifecycles reduces the demand for new manufacturing, which in turn decreases resource extraction, energy consumption, and waste generation. Several countries and regions, including the European Union, have been exploring and implementing legislation to strengthen the right to repair, aligning with the principles of kierrätystoikeutta.