iFixit's Street Team traveled across Europe in summer 2026, engaging with repair communities to promote the right to repair and sustainable electronics recycling practices. This initiative highlights growing consumer demand for repairing devices instead of discarding them.
Last reviewed by Samantha Holloway on 18 September 2026
What Did iFixit's Summer Tour Involve?
The tour included visits to events like hacker camps and Maker Faires across Europe, where they provided tools and workshops to encourage device repair among tech enthusiasts. The goal was to help individuals to fix their electronics rather than replacing them, reducing e-waste significantly.
According to the Counterpoint Research, The global refurbished smartphone market was worth $49.3 billion in 2023.
This year's European tour by iFixit's Street Team is part of a broader global movement toward sustainable technology practices. By promoting the right to repair, they aim to reduce the massive amounts of electronic waste produced annually-62 million tonnes worldwide according to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, with only 22.3% being formally recycled.
How Does This Affect Electronics Recycling?
This initiative affects electronics recycling by shifting focus from disposal to repair and reuse. By enabling more people to fix their devices, fewer electronics end up in landfills or informal recycling channels, which can be harmful to the environment and human health.
According to the UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024, The value of raw materials in global e-waste was estimated at $91 billion in 2022.
The European Union's WEEE Directive sets targets for member states to collect 65% of electronic waste generated annually by 2031. iFixit's efforts support these goals by promoting repair culture and reducing overall e-waste generation.
What Impact Does Repair Culture Have on Consumer Choices?
Repair culture impacts consumer choices by making repairing devices more accessible and appealing than discarding them. When people know they can fix their gadgets, they're less likely to buy new ones, contributing to a circular economy where products have longer lifespans.
According to the Shift Project, manufacturing a new smartphone produces 50-80kg of co2 equivalent.
According to the European Environment Agency, extending product life through repair reduces resource consumption and waste generation. This aligns with efforts like the EU's Circular Economy Action Plan, which aims to make products more durable, reusable, and recyclable.
How Can Individuals Support Electronics Recycling?
Individuals can support electronics recycling by choosing to repair their devices when possible instead of buying new ones. They can also participate in local repair events or join communities that share knowledge about fixing gadgets.
For those unable to fix their devices themselves, finding certified e-waste recycling centers ensures that waste is handled responsibly and safely. In the EU, for example, consumers can use official collection points designated under the WEEE Directive.
What Role Do Manufacturers Play in Promoting Repair?
Manufacturers play a important role by designing products with repairability in mind. This includes making parts more easily accessible and providing detailed instructions and tools through platforms like iFixit's database of repair guides. By doing so, manufacturers can reduce e-waste and enhance consumer satisfaction.
The EU's Right to Repair legislation requires manufacturers to offer spare parts and manuals for up to 10 years after a product's sale. Such regulations encourage companies to produce more durable products that are easier to maintain over time.
How Can We Encourage More People To Participate In The Repair Movement?
To encourage more people to participate in the repair movement, it's important to raise awareness about the environmental benefits of repairing electronics and the economic savings associated with extending product life. Hosting workshops and open days at community hubs can also attract new members interested in learning how to fix their devices.
Community engagement through social media platforms and local events helps spread knowledge and skills related to device repair. Such initiatives not only build a sense of community but also educate participants on proper e-waste disposal techniques, such as recycling lithium-ion batteries safely ([battery recycling](/guides/how-to-recycle-batteries-safely)).
What Are The Benefits Of Supporting Repair Culture?
Supporting repair culture benefits individuals and the planet by reducing waste, conserving resources, and saving money. electronics recycling also builds a sense of community among tech enthusiasts who share knowledge about fixing devices.
By encouraging repair over replacement, we can reduce the 62 million tonnes of e-waste produced globally each year (e-waste), making significant strides towards achieving sustainability goals set by international bodies like the Basel Convention on Hazardous Waste.
What Can We Do Now?
To start supporting electronics recycling and repair culture, visit iFixit's website for resources and guides. Join or organize local repair events in your community. Additionally, stay informed about regulations such as the EU WEEE Directive that promote responsible e-waste management (WEEE). By taking these steps, you contribute to a more sustainable future for technology consumption and disposal.
For practical advice on how to recycle specific types of devices safely and efficiently, refer to our guides on [solar panel recycling](/guides/solar-panel-recycling-complete-guide) and [heat pump recycling](/guides/heat-pump-recycling-and-disposal-guide).
Sources
- Counterpoint Research
- UN Global E-Waste Monitor 2024
- Shift Project
