50 Million Tons of Waste: Are Big Companies Secretly Making Your Stuff Break Faster?

Did you know that most of the things you buy today are designed to break? That's right—your phone, your appliances, even your favorite gadgets… they're not built to last. But why is that?

Welcome to the world of planned obsolescence. It's a strategy where companies intentionally design products to fail or become outdated quickly, so you're forced to buy again. And it's costing you more than just money—it's harming the planet too.

Here's a fact: The United Nations reports that we generate over 50 million tons of electronic waste every year. That's like throwing away 1,000 laptops every single second! And according to a study by the University of Southern Denmark (2021), extending the lifespan of electronics by just one year could reduce global e-waste by 4 million tons annually.

So, what can you do about it? Here are three simple steps to fight back and make smarter choices:

Repair, don't replace. Instead of buying new, look for repair shops or DIY tutorials. Fixing an old product can save you money and reduce waste.

Buy for durability. Look for brands with a reputation for long-lasting products. Sometimes, buying a 20-year-old vintage item is better than a brand-new one!

Support the right to repair. Advocate for laws that give you the right to fix your own devices. It's your product—you should control it!

Think of it like this: Would you rather buy a car that breaks down every year or one that lasts a lifetime? The same logic applies to everything you own. Choose wisely!

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Now, tell me in the comments: What's the oldest item you own that still works perfectly? Let's celebrate the things that were built to last!

Sources:

United Nations (2021). "Global E-Waste Monitor"

University of Southern Denmark (2021). "The Environmental Benefits of Extending Product Lifespans"

European Environmental Bureau (2020). "The Right to Repair: Why It Matters"