Televisions subject to a sustainability index, and soon washing machines

It is about to replace the repairability index in France. One year late, the sustainability index will be deployed, from this Wednesday, January 8, for televisions, then from April 8 for washing machines. It was also supposed to concern smartphones, but the European Commission issued an unfavorable opinion, in October 2024, to the great regret of HOP, the association which campaigns and acts for durable and repairable products.

This replacement of one index by another was provided for by the Anti-waste law for a circular economy (Agec). The aim is to better inform consumers about the repairability and reliability criteria of these products and to encourage manufacturers to produce eco-designed goods. The sustainability index results in a score out of 10, which will appear on a sticker next to the price of each product concerned, whether it is sold on the shelves or on the internet. Each of the two criteria of repairability and reliability will weigh 50% of the score.

The HOP association is campaigning to submit more products

This information should also be available on a public platform. For their part, manufacturers must provide, on request, the index calculation grid. The HOP association says it is satisfied with this step forward towards greater transparency for consumers, but it regrets that certain points in the television index prove too easy to obtain, such as those provided by information on maintenance of this equipment.

She also regrets that this index only concerns too few products. She is therefore campaigning with the State to ensure, in the near future, earphones, headsets, wireless speakers, bicycles and small household appliances.