New technologies and new digital solutions for improved safety of products on the internal market : tackling planned obsolescence practices, barriers to trade for recycled products and enhancing consumer information

The General Product Safety Directive is a cornerstone of the EU product safety legislative framework. Issues and emerging trends have however impacted the effectiveness of the current Directive. This study examines how new technologies and digital solutions can help improve consumers' awareness, while also guaranteeing a better safety of the products placed on the Single Market. The study formulates recommendations that provide a framework for the better alignment of existing legislation on product safety and digital services, as well as the European Community sustainability objectives. This document was provided by the Policy Department for Economic, Scientific and Quality of Life Policies for the committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection (IMCO).