2026-27 Capstone

Right To Repair: Framework Laptop

Framework has set out to design electronics with longevity in mind. Their lapto0p has modular components that can be repaired or replaced.

Recycling Electronics Is Out, Repair Is In

"We've gone from 44.4 million tonnes of e-waste per year in 2014 to 53.6 million tonnes in 2019," he told Dezeen. "As an industry, we can't keep moving in this direction."

"Rather than just focusing on recycling, Framework hopes to combat this issue by helping consumers to generate less waste and making products that last longer than traditional mass-market devices, which Patel describes as "disposable one-offs".

While recycling is good when possible, not having a products lifespan end at the first malfunction, is even better.

Designing With Repair in Mind

"Both the European Union and the United Kingdom have passed some version of the right to repair into law, but laptops and smartphones have so far been excluded from this kind of regulation."

"Each component is emblazoned with a QR code that directs users to step-by-step instructions for repair or replacement, as well as a webpage where they can order the spare part from Framework's marketplace."

Frameworks' radical shift to instructional customer repair support and readiness to provide the resources and materials needed to mend their devices could be an important shift the market needs to see.

Designing for repair as a sustainability approach has always stuck out to me as a front runner. However, my concerns arise with the rapid development in technology. How quickly will they be able to stock new parts and components while maintaining a stock of older models? People rely so heavily on technology. If their laptop is broken how long are they willing to wait for new parts?

References

Hitti, N. (2022, January 4). Framework develops modular laptop users can fix and upgrade themselves. Dezeen. https://www.dezeen.com/2022/01/04/framework-modular-laptop-technology/

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