Playing the Consumption Game
This article by Laura B. Morgenthal examines the issue of geplante Obsoleszenz (planned obsolescence) in modern consumer electronics and household products. The author argues that most products today are intentionally designed to fail or become obsolete quickly, driving a cycle of consumption and disposal.
Definition: Geplante Obsoleszenz refers to the practice of designing products with an artificially limited lifespan to encourage frequent replacements.
The author contrasts this with products from previous generations that were built to last for many years. She notes that when electronic devices fail, it is often more cost-effective to replace them entirely rather than repair them.
Highlight: This cyclical consumption-disposal-consumption process is often an intentional business strategy for companies.
The environmental impacts of this practice are severe. Manufacturing electronics requires mining metals, uses significant energy and water, and involves toxic chemicals that harm workers and the environment. The resulting electronic waste (e-waste) is described as a "tragic development."
Example: Examples of products designed with planned obsolescence include iPhones, laptops, MP3 players, light bulbs, microwaves, and televisions.
The author suggests several solutions, including banning toxic materials in electronics manufacturing, implementing better product take-back laws, and extending producer responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products.
Vocabulary: EPR (extended producer responsibility) is a concept where manufacturers are responsible for the safe recycling and disposal of their own products.
The article concludes by questioning whether consumers are "buying into the game" of constant upgrades and replacements, even when their current products still function well.
