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The circular economy in France is currently undergoing significant changes, particularly in the area of repair bonuses. Since the launch of the Repair Fund in December 2022, the country has been seeking to stimulate the repair of household appliances, electronics, textiles and footwear, and plans to extend these initiatives to other sectors. This article explores recent developments, the future reparation bonuses planned for 2024, and analyses the results of the reparation fund one year after its introduction.
Repair Bonus : A new lease of life in 2024
At present, only two bonuses are available to French consumers, encouraging the repair of household appliances and electronics, as well as textiles and footwear. However, internal sources indicate that a bonus dedicated to DIY and gardening equipment is being finalised and will be officially launched in early 2024. This new addition reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to broadening incentives for repair in a variety of areas.
Expectations regarding the decree amending the regulations
A decree to amend the regulations governing the compensation fund was submitted for consultation in the summer of 2023. Although this decree is crucial to strengthening the repair bonus scheme, it is currently being examined by the Conseil d’État. The proposed changes could have significant implications for the way bonuses are administered, managed and extended to other sectors.
Review of the Repair Fund: Contrasting results after one year
One year after the launch of the repair fund, the eco-organisations responsible for the extended producer responsibility (EPR) sector, Ecologic and Ecosystem, have allocated around €4 million, covering almost 165,000 repairs. However, this figure still falls short of the targets initially set, with the industry’s specifications providing for a budget of €63 million for the period 2022-2023. This situation has given rise to questions about the effectiveness and current scope of the compensation fund.
Reinforcement of the Bonus in January 2024
In the light of these results, Christophe Béchu announced in October that the bonus would be increased from 1 January 2024. This initiative aims to boost the roll-out of the scheme by doubling the bonus for five everyday items of equipment, including washing machines, dishwashers, tumble dryers, hoovers and televisions. In addition, around twenty new appliances will be eligible for the bonus, extending the scope of the repair.
Inclusive measures and increased requirements
The order published on 14 November has already set out certain measures, such as the inclusion of remote repairs in the bonus. This is a significant addition at a time when working and consumption patterns are changing rapidly. The order also imposes a minimum number of approved repairers, with a target of 7,800 approved outlets by the end of 2024, compared with the current 4,700. These stricter requirements are designed to guarantee the quality of repairs and boost consumer confidence in the system.
What is the outlook for Repair Bonuses in 2024?
As France prepares to welcome new repair bonuses in 2024, the outlook for the circular economy is hopeful. The extension of repair incentives to other sectors, such as DIY and gardening equipment, and the discussion on sports and leisure goods within the EPR cross-sector commission, underline a continuing commitment to sustainable economic practices.
Recent developments in the field of repair bonuses in France reflect a growing desire to promote the circular economy. The adjustments planned for 2024, coupled with a rollercoaster year, highlight the need to continue refining and improving existing mechanisms. France is a pioneer in promoting repair as an essential means of extending the life of products and reducing the environmental impact of electronic and household appliance waste.
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