M/608 - EcoPhones

Purpose

The mandate M/608 aims to establish standardisation requirements to support ecodesign regulations for various types of mobile communication devices, including smartphones, mobile phones other than smartphones, cordless phones, and slate tablets. This initiative is aligned with the Commission Implementing Decision to facilitate compliance with Regulation (EU) 2023/1670 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1669, promoting environmental sustainability in the design and performance of these devices.

Standardisation request

The request is to develop harmonized standards that specify ecodesign criteria for the covered categories of devices. These standards will assist manufacturers and stakeholders in meeting the legal requirements set forth by the referenced EU regulations. Standardisation bodies, such as CEN, are expected to coordinate efforts to produce technical specifications and methodologies that enable effective implementation and assessment of ecodesign measures.

Expected deliverables

The mandate anticipates the delivery of comprehensive standardisation documents addressing:

• Ecodesign requirements relevant to smartphones, non-smart mobile phones, cordless phones, and slate tablets.
• Test methods and measurement procedures to verify compliance with ecodesign criteria.
• Guidelines that facilitate market surveillance and verification by authorities.
• Technical standards that contribute to reducing environmental impact during manufacturing, usage, and end-of-life phases of these devices.

Context

This mandate supports the EU’s broader environmental and circular economy policies aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of electronic products. By standardizing ecodesign requirements, the EU seeks to promote energy efficiency, resource conservation, and ease of repair or recycling in mobile communication devices. The decision references existing legal acts (Regulation (EU) 2023/1670 and Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/1669) which focus on the sustainability aspects of such devices, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to achieving climate and environmental goals through regulatory and standardisation measures.