European Parliament Backs Common Chargers for All Mobile Phones

MEPs have backed the adoption of a common charger for all mobile phones sold in the EU in a bid to reduce waste, costs and hassle for users.

Thursday's vote in the EP concerns an update to EU radio equipment laws and is based on a proposal by the European Commission (IP/12/1109).

According to the press office of the European Parliament, the draft draft has already been informally agreed with the Council of Ministers.

The draft law was approved by 550 votes to 12, with 8 abstentions. It will still have to be formally approved by the Council. Member states will have two years to transpose the rules into their national laws and manufacturers will have an additional year to comply.

"The modernised Radio Equipment Directive is an efficient tool to prevent interference between different radio equipment devices. I am especially pleased that we agreed on the introduction of a common charger. This serves the interests both of consumers and the environment. It will put an end to charger clutter and 51,000 tonnes of electronic waste annually", said rapporteur Barbara Weiler (S&D, DE).

European Commission Vice President Antonio Tajani, Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship, said: "Today's vote sets the basis for further innovation and growth in the area of mobile communications. The sector continues to show enormous potential. Reliable and fast wireless communications are essential to the on-going revolution in manufacturing, services, education, entertainment and practically all spheres of life. And there is more: the new rules enable us to introduce a common charger for mobile phones and similar devices. This is very good news for our citizens and for the environment".

The draft directive...