DON'T TOSS IT—REPAIR IT

Sustainable tech starts by repairing what you own.
Learn why repairable electronics matter for planet and wallet.

Tech companies design devices to resist repairs: proprietary screws, glued components, software locks.

  • 🗑️ E-waste is the fastest-growing waste stream globally
  • ☠️ Toxins leak into soil & water
  • 💸 Consumers spend billions on replacements
  • 🌍 Huge carbon impact per device

Watch our explainer.

The Problem With Throwaway Tech

Short device lifespans create mountains of e-waste, lock users out of repairs, and waste the energy and materials that went into making every phone, laptop, and gadget.

Why Can't You Repair Your Phone?

Glued display example

🔒 Glued & Fused Display

Problem: Industrial adhesives bond screens to frames. Most repairs need special heat tools.

Impact: Cracked screens often mean full device replacement.

Better: Modular, screwed displays.

Sealed battery example

🔋 Sealed Battery Prison

Problem: Battery glued and blocked, unsafe for DIY swaps.

Impact: When batteries die, most users buy a new device.

Better: Clip-in, removable batteries.

Proprietary parts example

⚙️ Proprietary Parts & Software Locks

Problem: Custom screws and parts; software blocks "unauthorized" repairs.

Impact: Even fixed parts may not work afterward.

Better: Standard parts and fair software.

Corroded ports example

🔌 Corroded Ports & Connectors

Problem: Liquids and grime damage connectors; often require part swaps.

Impact: Charging and audio can fail, driving replacements.

Better: Replaceable ports and water-resistant but serviceable designs.

Motherboard example

🧩 Fragile Motherboard Layouts

Problem: Dense PCBs with glued components increase repair difficulty.

Impact: Small faults can make a device irreparable for non-professionals.

Better: Modular board sections and service-friendly connectors.

Calculate Your E-Waste Impact

How much e-waste do your device replacement habits create? Use this calculator to find out your personal environmental impact.

devices
per year

Your E-Waste Impact

Total E-Waste (10 years): 0 kg
CO₂ Emissions: 0 kg
Equivalent to: 0
💡 Good News! Your replacement habits are relatively sustainable. Keep using devices longer when possible!

Take Action Today

The fight for repairable tech needs your voice. Here's how you can make a difference:

🛠️ Choose Repairable

  • Check repairability scores before buying
  • Support brands with high repair scores
  • Buy refurbished when possible
  • Avoid devices with glued components

🔧 Repair, Don't Replace

  • Visit local repair shops first
  • Learn basic repairs (battery swaps, etc.)
  • Use manufacturer repair programs
  • Keep devices longer (aim for 4+ years)

📢 Advocate for Change

  • Support Right to Repair legislation
  • Contact your representatives
  • Sign petitions for repair rights
  • Share this information with others

♻️ Recycle Responsibly

  • Find certified e-waste recyclers
  • Never throw electronics in trash
  • Donate working devices
  • Remove personal data before recycling

Repair Resources & Guides

Find reliable, up-to-date resources for fixing your devices. Have a recommended source? Suggest it to us!