Understanding Planned Obsolescence

Planned obsolescence is a common practice in product design; for example, in the computer industry. From a business point of view, it makes sense to deliberately shorten the life cycle of a product - think of your smartphone - to stimulate consumption. From a sustainability perspective, such a business strategy is obscene and should be banned. This book provides the wider conceptual, ethical and legal framework of sustainable development so that the reader can fully appreciate the wastefulness of planned obsolescence. It makes invaluable reading for consumers, environmental lawyers, regulators and everyone concerned with a sustainable future and what the law can do about it.

This book is an absolute reference on planned obsolescence; it overcomes strictly technical or environmental visions to replace them, giving meaning and understanding in a broader economic and political context. The author does not merely describe a phenomenon, but presents a range of possible solutions. A great success.

As consumers in the 21st century, we have become accustomed to the frequent updates of technology, features, fast fashion and when something frustratingly breaks right after the warranty has expired. This is at the heart of 'understanding planned obsolescence' and its critical impact on sustainability and civilization. Kamila Pope provides competent, thought-provoking arguments, ideas for political, social and legal changes as well as real-world cases relating to this complex topic. This is a compelling must-read for anyone who wants to understand, advocate and implement pragmatic proposals for more environmentally balanced patterns of production and consumption.

A thorough study describing the emergence and generalization of planned obsolescence in our growthist economies, as well as its harmful social and environmental consequences. We urgently need a paradigm shift to put humanity back at the heart of our economic choices and ensure that the possibility of living for the whole planet comes before growth. Understanding what is at stake in tackling planned obsolescence is a first step to take action.

Understanding Planned Obsolescence is full of interesting insights and fresh ideas about postmodern production and consumption patterns and their destructive impacts on the environment. This book sends an important message: that it is possible to adopt socio-environmentally responsible productive behaviour in relation to durability of goods. It is a must-read that comes at a strategic time, following the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals.