The Cascadia Department of Bioregion supports the right of every individual to have the right to repair items that they own. All too often, usable products and device components are shredded or tossed away instead of being salvaged, fixed, and reused.
Many consumers are unaware that companies and governments have made it illegal for individuals, third parties, or non-direct or licensed service processors to make simple repair of products.
Guaranteeing Property Rights
PRODUCT OWNERS NEED THE RIGHT TO REPAIR THEIR PRODUCTS OR HAVE THEM SERVICED AT THE INDEPENDENT REPAIR FACILITY OF THEIR CHOICE.
Many manufacturers make it impossible—whether inadvertently or intentionally—for consumers or independent repair technicians to fix their products, leaving consumers with few other options than to buy new.
Creating an economy around extending the lifespan of manufactured goods will create jobs and benefit the environment.
Products should be designed to have their lifespan extended by regular maintenance and repair.
Equal Access
Work To:
Information:
Manuals: Make publicly accessible standardized service manuals in an electronic format.
Schematics and circuit diagrams: Make semiconductor diagrams and data sheets publicly accessible.
Software updates: Allow owners and independent service providers access to machine code and firmware patches and fixes.
Licenses: Make all contracts clearly identify which elements of the machine are not included in the sale. Do not allow companies to create contract language (End User License Agreements) that modify or limit support options in the future.
Parts + Tools: Make service parts and tools available at non-discriminatory pricing to equipment owners and third parties.
Patents: Encourage patent licenses to produce repair parts and tools available under fair licensing terms.
Diagnostics: Make troubleshooting and diagnostic tools, codes, and service software available.
Unlocking: Legalize unlocking, adapting, and modifying any part of the machine, including software.
Design: Integrate Design for Repair principles into eco-design product design practices.
